PHOENIX -- Today is another crucial contest for the Phoenix Suns - as they are looking to secure win number 30 on the season today.
The Dallas Mavericks are conveniently the opponent the Suns are facing today - the unfortunate string of injuries has rendered them in a free-fall as of late.
A Phoenix victory today would both secure the season series (tiebreaker) and bring them within 1.5 games of the play-in tournament.
Head coach Mike Budenholzer opted to start the same group that has generally yielded positive results over the last two games.
The unit to start out the game:
Beal strugged from the field in Friday night's loss to the Denver Nuggets, but did collect nine assists and played solid defense throughout his 41 minutes of action.
Booker enjoyed a bounce back game - including a beautiful touch pass to Kevin Durant that forced overtime - he will look to put forth another strong scoring showcase today.
Durant was both extraordinarily clutch in the previous game - totaling 29 points on just 16 shots. Today is an opportunity to take full advantage of a favorable matchup.
Bol failed to make much of an impact against his former team, but Budenholzer is continuing to put trust in the uniquely talented big to provide a spark to a Suns squad that has desperately needed it.
Richards recorded 18 points in 26 minutes of action on Friday - but Mason Plumlee superseded the recent acquisition late in the game. Dallas poses a much more favorable linear matchup for Richards, so fully expect another strong performance from the Kentucky product.
Suns-Mavs is set to tip-off shortly after 12:30 P.M. Arizona time.