Phoenix Suns Secure Victory, Extend Miami Heat’s Losing Streak to Seven Games
In a Monday night matchup, the Phoenix Suns defeated the Miami Heat 118-105, sending the hosts to their seventh consecutive loss. Eric Gordon, coming off the bench, led the Suns with 23 points, while Devin Booker added 22 points to contribute to the victory.
The defeat marks the Heat’s longest losing streak since the 2007-08 season when they dropped 15 straight games. This streak is also a career-long for coach Erik Spoelstra. Kevin Durant played a significant role for the Suns, scoring 20 points, grabbing eight rebounds, and dishing out seven assists. Bradley Beal added 19 points and seven assists to further boost Phoenix’s performance.
Despite Booker’s slow start, with just eight points in the first half, he picked up momentum after halftime. The Suns held a 33-25 lead after the first quarter, propelled by Drew Eubanks, who scored all 11 of his points in an efficient opening period. Phoenix extended its lead to 62-49 at halftime, marking the eighth consecutive game that the Heat trailed at halftime.
Booker’s 12 points in the third quarter helped the Suns establish a commanding 100-74 lead. Although Miami attempted a comeback with a 13-0 run, bridging the end of the third and start of the fourth quarter, a Durant 3-pointer halted their momentum, allowing the Suns to cruise to victory.
Jimmy Butler led the Heat with 26 points, supported by Terry Rozier’s 21 points and Tyler Herro’s 17 points. Bam Adebayo, held to eight points, contributed with a team-high five assists, 11 rebounds, and three blocks.
Phoenix showcased their efficiency, shooting 48.9 percent from the floor and dominating in the paint with a 46-32 advantage. In contrast, Miami struggled with a 39.3 percent shooting performance. Grayson Allen of the Suns suffered a sprained right ankle in the second quarter, scoring just three points, while Miami’s Duncan Robinson did not play after the first quarter due to illness.
Robinson went scoreless in four minutes. Suns center Jusuf Nurkic returned from a sprained left thumb, posting six points and eight rebounds before fouling out in the fourth quarter.