Devin Booker has issued a direct challenge to the Phoenix Suns' starting lineup, pointing to the team's bench as a model for better chemistry. His comments follow a 125-114 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on October 26, which dropped the Suns' early record to 1-2. Booker emphasized that the second unit's connectivity, built in daily practice, is something the first group must emulate to improve results.
Speaking after a 131-122 home-opening win against the Golden State Warriors on October 24, Booker was blunt in his assessment. "I'd say right now they [the bench] have more of a chemistry than our first group," he told reporters. He noted this dynamic is common, as reserve units often develop tight bonds from competing against starters daily. Booker scored 43 points in that victory, which came after a dismal 124-83 road loss to the Portland Trail Blazers to open the season.
He stressed the starters need to observe the bench's unselfish style. "You play against those guys every day in practice, and they know each other like white on rice," Booker said. "Us as the first unit I think need to learn from them..." His statement acts as a clear wake-up call for a team with playoff aspirations.
The Suns' starting five features Devin Booker at point guard and Jalen Green at shooting guard. The forwards are Dillon Brooks and Miles Bridges, with Khaman Maluach at center. This group has shown offensive firepower but inconsistent cohesion through three games.
Their bench forms a reliable 10-man rotation. It is spearheaded by guards Collin Gillespie and Jordan Goodwin, plus veteran shooter Luke Kennard. Forwards Ryan Dunn and Oso Ighodaro provide defensive versatility and size. This unit's ability to play for each other has caught Booker's eye and set a standard he wants the starters to meet.
Before the season, Booker expressed optimism about roster continuity. The team brought back most of its core and added veteran Miles Bridges. "We're coming in all with the same mindset to win," Booker said during media day. He highlighted offseason work in Toronto, Vegas, and Flagstaff to build chemistry through open gyms.
That foundation is now being tested by early results. The Suns' recent form reads LWL, with the blowout loss in Portland followed by the win over Golden State and the latest defeat in Oklahoma City. The schedule offers a quick chance to respond with a major test against the Denver Nuggets at home on October 30. Fans can track the team's progress on our schedule page.
The immediate focus is correcting course before a tough Western Conference matchup. Hosting the Denver Nuggets on October 30 presents a perfect opportunity for the starting unit to apply Booker's lessons. How the first group integrates and sacrifices will be key against a perennial contender.
Booker's leadership in calling out the issue publicly shows its importance. The Suns' playoff hopes may hinge on the starters closing the chemistry gap with their bench. The next few games will show if his message was received.
