The Phoenix Suns remain winless in the preseason after a 124-117 loss to the Chicago Bulls on October 7. Newcomer Miles Bridges suffered a right ankle injury early in the second quarter and did not return, casting a shadow over the contest. This preseason setback follows a difficult close to the 2025-26 campaign, where the Suns lost their final four games, including a 122-131 defeat to the Oklahoma City Thunder on April 28.
Dillon Brooks led the Suns with 24 points in the loss. Jalen Green and Collin Gillespie each added 12, while Devin Booker struggled, scoring 11 points on 3-of-14 shooting. The Bulls' rookie Caleb Wilson topped all scorers with 15 points in Chicago's preseason opener. Phoenix's second unit provided a first-quarter spark, turning a tie game into a 40-29 lead. The group of Gillespie, Luke Kennard, Jordan Goodwin, Ryan Dunn, and Khaman Maluach generated energy with deflections and blocks.
Defensive rebounding was a major issue again. The Bulls, led by Tobe Awaka's six offensive boards, dominated the glass. Phoenix finished next to last in the NBA in that category last season, and the problem persisted. Booker's three-point shooting is another area to watch. He went 0-for-8 from deep against the Bulls and is now 1-of-12 in the preseason.
Bridges' early exit is a significant blow. He was expected to be a key piece for a team needing defensive versatility and rebounding help. His absence directly impacted the Suns' ability to control the glass against Chicago. Head coach Frank Vogel will need to assess the severity of the sprain quickly. A prolonged absence would test the team's depth early, forcing players like Ryan Dunn and Rasheer Fleming into larger roles as they compete for rotation minutes.
Phoenix continues its preseason schedule at home on October 10 against the San Antonio Spurs. The focus will be on integrating players and solidifying rotations before the regular season tips off. Improving defensive rebounding and finding a consistent rhythm for Booker are clear priorities. The Suns' recent form, marked by a 1-4 record in their last five games of the previous season, adds urgency to these preseason adjustments. The team must use these games to build momentum and address weaknesses exposed in their playoff-ending losses to Oklahoma City.
