Utah JazzOpen full analysis
Phoenix SunsOpen full analysis
The Phoenix Suns defeated the Utah Jazz 118–96 on October 31 at Footprint Center, with Devin Booker leading the way on 36 points as Phoenix's offense clicked at a 47.3 percent clip from the field and 17 three-pointers made. Despite Lauri Markkanen's 33-point effort for Utah, the Jazz struggled offensively, shooting just 37.5 percent and committing 21 turnovers that fueled Phoenix's 118.1 offensive rating. The Suns' defense proved suffocating, holding Utah to a 93.1 offensive rating while forcing steals on 10 occasions. Phoenix's balanced attack also featured Gail Allen with 14 points, and the team's 30 assists and 44 rebounds provided multiple avenues to score. Utah's fourth-quarter push (29 points) came too late after the Suns built control through the middle quarters, outscoring the Jazz 46–50 across the second and third periods. The Jazz's turnover-heavy performance and 37.5 percent shooting proved insurmountable against a Suns team that capitalized on every advantage. Phoenix's dominant defensive showing positions them as a serious contender in the Western Conference race.
