Suns' Big 3 suffer tough blow against Knicks with Bradley Beal injury

The Suns entered Friday's game against the New York Knicks hoping to get their first win with Devin Booker, Bradley Beal, and Kevin Durant in the lineup. Their debut against the Nets on Wednesday resulted in a 116-112 loss (subscription required).

Beal suited up for his sixth game of 2023-24 against New York after missing the majority of the first quarter of the season with a back injury. Things quickly took an unfortunate turn as less than five minutes into the game, Beal twisted his right ankle.

The guard went up for a three, with Donte DiVincenzo jumping up to contest the shot. Beal hit the shot, and DiVincenzo was whistled for the foul, making it a four-point play. Upon further review, the officials deemed it a flagrant one on DiVincenzo, although there was no "unnecessary contact" from the Knicks guard.

Beal stayed on the ground in pain as fans in Footprint Center held their breath while hoping for the best. He was able to get up and make the free throw but then immediately went back to the locker room. Shortly after, Phoenix announced he'd be out for the remainder of the game.

Suns guard Bradley Beal twists ankle in first quarter against Knicks

You don't have to be a Suns fan to feel bad for Bradley Beal, who has struggled to stay healthy in recent seasons. He was traded to Phoenix over the summer from Washington, where he had been since 2012. Beal never reached an Eastern Conference Finals during that span with the Wizards.

Things were supposed to be different with the Suns, who have made the playoffs the past three seasons but are searching for their first NBA title.

Jalen Brunson rolled his ankle last Friday against the Celtics, and it seemed as if he'd at least be out for a few games. However, the Knicks guard didn't miss a contest. Hopefully, Beal will experience a similar bounce-back, but it should be noted he has far more of an extensive injury history than Brunson.

Let's hope that Bradley Beal will miss minimal time and be back on the court soon!