The Phoenix Suns hit the road to face the Oklahoma City Thunder on October 26, looking to build momentum after a high-scoring victory. Their last result was a 131-122 win over the Golden State Warriors on October 24, a game where Devin Booker set a franchise record with 43 points in a home opener. That win evened their recent form to 1W-1L, following a tough 124-83 road loss to the Portland Trail Blazers to start the season. The 5 p.m. tip-off at Paycom Center will test a Suns roster managing several early injuries against an undefeated Thunder squad.
Phoenix will be without rookie big man Oso Ighodaro, who is officially out with a right oblique strain. Ighodaro suffered the injury during the first half of the season-opening loss in Portland but managed to play through it against Golden State. His absence thins the frontcourt rotation. Center Mark Williams remains out following left shoulder surgery. Two-way player Drew Timme is also ruled out as he is with the Valley Suns, the team's G League affiliate, for their training camp. The Suns' depth will be challenged against a physical Thunder team.
Devin Booker's performance against the Warriors was the main story of the Suns' home opener. His 43 points set a new franchise record for points scored in a Suns home opener, a remarkable feat considering the franchise's history of offensive stars. Booker shot efficiently from all over the court, attacking the paint and hitting from the perimeter. That offensive explosion was vital for a team still finding its rhythm, providing the scoring punch needed to outlast a potent Warriors offense. It was a signature performance that showed his role as the team's primary engine.
The Thunder present a formidable challenge with a perfect 3-0 record. However, they may be without a key piece. Star wing Jalen Williams suffered a lower left-leg injury in their last game, a 108-101 win over the Los Angeles Clippers on October 25. Williams, a Perry Gilbert High graduate, was carted off the court on a stretcher, casting doubt on his availability. Even if he is sidelined, the Thunder have a deep and talented roster led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Their defensive intensity and transition game will force the Suns to be sharp with their ball handling and defensive rotations.
This road game kicks off a critical early stretch for Phoenix. Building consistency after a blowout loss and a record-setting win is the immediate task. Integrating players around Booker and establishing a reliable defensive identity are ongoing priorities for head coach Mike Budenholzer. Fans can track the team's progress and view the full schedule on our schedule page. The outcome in Oklahoma City will set the tone before the Suns return home. How they respond to the Thunder's pressure could reveal a lot about this team's resilience and potential in the 2026-27 NBA season.
