Suns Shine in Devin Booker's Return, Defeat T'Wolves

Devin Booker and the Phoenix Suns were simply too much for the Minnesota Timberwolves.

PHOENIX -- The Phoenix Suns gained a much-needed win over the Minnesota Timberwolves in 133-115 fashion. The team now improves to 5-6 on the year. 

The return of Devin Booker from a calf strain gave the Suns a major boost in the lineup, as the MVP candidate was obviously missed for Frank Vogel and co. on the hardwood. Booker played 26 minutes and scored 31 points with four rebounds and five assists. 

Phoenix initially expected Bradley Beal to participate, though he's now missed eight-of-eleven games due to lower back issues. The Suns' big three of Booker, Beal and Kevin Durant have yet to play together in the regular season.

“Just making sure that everyone is playing as a team, we’re balanced and the rotation, so that they’re all getting equal opportunity and we’re utilizing them to the best of their abilities," said Suns coach Frank Vogel prior to the game. 

Phoenix put out a starting lineup of Booker, Eric Gordon, Grayson Allen, Kevin Durant and Jusuf Nurkic tonight. Bench players such as Josh Okogie (12) and Drew Eubanks (13) poured in double-digit scoring efforts to stop their two-game losing streak. 

Durant secured his fifth 30+ point game of the year with 31 points, six rebounds and six assists in 35 minutes. 

The Suns have seen recent shooting troubles haunt them, but not tonight. Phoenix shot a superb 60% from the field which featured 54.8% shooting from three-point land. 

All but one starter (Nurkic with three points on just 1-3 shooting) scored 14 or more points. 

The Suns always seemed to be in control after 35-point first quarter where Phoenix shot 12-19 as a team. After leading 76-54 at half, the game was easily in hand the rest of the way despite recent fourth quarter struggles.

Minnesota was led by Karl-Anthony Towns' 25 points. Anthony Edwards had 13 on just 4-16 shooting. 

Phoenix led by as much as 28 on the night. They had no fastbreak points compared to Minnesota's mere nine through all four quarters. 

The Suns will be back in action on Friday in a road test against the Utah Jazz.