Devin Booker erupted for a franchise-record 43 points to lead the Phoenix Suns to a 131-122 victory over the Golden State Warriors in their home opener on October 24. The win provided a major bounce-back after a 41-point road loss to open the season, though the Suns' recent form shows a 1-2 record after a 125-114 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on October 26.
The Suns responded to an ugly season-opening loss with a strong offensive performance against a short-handed Warriors squad. After falling behind by seven points in the first half, Phoenix rallied to take a 57-54 lead into halftime. The Warriors fought back to grab a 73-71 advantage midway through the third quarter. That's when Booker took complete control of the game. He scored 12 consecutive points, finishing the run with a four-point play that gave the Suns a 99-89 lead late in the third. Jordan Goodwin hit a three-pointer to end the quarter, securing a 102-92 lead Phoenix would not relinquish. Six Suns players finished in double figures, supporting Booker's huge night.
This victory was about establishing an identity at home. Getting blown out by 41 points to the Portland Trail Blazers on October 21 was a brutal way to start the 2026-27 campaign. A sellout crowd of 17,071 at Mortgage Matchup Center needed to see a response, and Booker delivered it. His 43 points set a new franchise benchmark for a home opener, a tangible piece of history that signals his role as the team's cornerstone. Beating a Western Conference rival like Golden State, even without some of their key players, builds confidence. It showed the team can execute under pressure and close out a game after building a lead.
The team's form is mixed as they handle the early season. Their last three results, in order, are a loss, a win, and another loss. Following the win over Golden State, they fell to the Oklahoma City Thunder 125-114 on October 26. That gives them a 1-2 record. Injuries are already a factor, with Oso Ighodaro sidelined for the home opener due to a right oblique strain. Integrating new pieces and finding consistent production beyond Booker will be an immediate focus for the coaching staff.
Phoenix faces another major test to close out October. They host the Denver Nuggets at home on October 30. It's a prime opportunity to get back to .500 and make a statement against another elite Western Conference opponent. The Nuggets' visit will demand a complete performance, particularly on the defensive end. The Suns' offense, led by Booker, has proven it can score in bunches. But shoring up their defense after allowing 125 points to the Thunder will be the priority in practice. How they perform in this early-season matchup could set the tone for a tough November schedule ahead. Fans can view the full upcoming slate on our schedule page.
