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Why the Devin Booker “problem” is a massive overreaction
TL;DR
Devin Booker faced criticism after a lackluster performance in a playoff game against the Portland Trail Blazers, scoring only 22 points. Despite concerns over his recent form, experts argue that one game does not define his capabilities as a player.
Key points
- Devin Booker scored 22 points in a playoff loss to the Trail Blazers.
- He was criticized for being passive in the fourth quarter.
- Concerns arise from an injury-riddled season affecting his performance.
- Experts argue one game does not define his overall capabilities.
Devin BookerPhoenix SunsPortland Trail BlazersJalen Green
Apr 14, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) reacts against the Portland Trail Blazers in the first half during the play-in rounds of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
GLENDALE – A home loss to the Portland Trail Blazers have experts and fans alike throwing concern and questions at Phoenix Suns superstar Devin Booker. In Tuesday’s Play-In game, the five-time All-Star scored 22 points on seven-of-17 shooting, with only three points scored in the fourth quarter. The usual late-game aggressor was passive, electing to not take the final shot in the final seconds and passing it to Jalen Green.
An injury-riddled year, with some slouches along the way, have people thinking Booker isn’t the same player he was during the team’s last NBA Finals run in 2021. However, that certainly isn’t true and one subpar playoff performance doesn’t erase his recent success.
Apr 14, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) argues with a referee against the Portland Trail Blazers in the second half during the play-in rounds of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Q&A
What happened in Devin Booker's recent playoff game?
In the recent playoff game against the Portland Trail Blazers, Devin Booker scored 22 points but struggled with his shooting, particularly in the fourth quarter.
Why are fans concerned about Devin Booker's performance?
Fans are concerned due to Booker's passive play in the final moments of the game and his overall inconsistent performance during an injury-riddled season.
How does Devin Booker's current performance compare to his past success?
Despite recent struggles, experts believe that one subpar playoff performance does not diminish Booker's success, including his contributions during the Suns' 2021 NBA Finals run.
What are the implications of Devin Booker's performance for the Phoenix Suns?
Booker's performance raises questions about the Suns' playoff prospects, but experts suggest that he remains a key player for the team's success moving forward.
