Suns Defeat Jazz, Stay Alive for In-Season Tournament

PHOENIX -- The Phoenix Suns snagged a much-needed 131-128 win over the Utah Jazz to stay alive for the knockout stages of the league's first in-season tournament.

A loss on top of a Los Angeles Lakers win (who were victorious in their effort over the Portland Trail Blazers) would have ensured Phoenix was mathematically eliminated from the knockout rounds.

Instead, Kevin Durant paved the way for a monster performance for Phoenix. Durant iced the game with a deep three with under a minute left. He finished with 38 points, nine rebounds and nine assists.

Partner in crime Devin Booker saw a career high 15 assists on the night with 24 points and four rebounds to match. He played consecutive games for the first time all season after dealing with various lower leg injuries.

With Bradley Beal sidelined for the next three weeks while he recovers from a back injury, the Suns rolled with their similar small-ball lineup Phoenix utilized in their last win over the Minnesota Timberwolves, which featured Grayson Allen and Eric Gordon.

The two shooters combined for 24 points with 6-12 shooting from downtown. Phoenix shot a strong 52.3% from the field. They led by as much as 14 on the night.

Every Suns starter scored 10 or more points. Drew Eubanks had a strong night off the bench, making all five of his attempts for 11 points and four rebounds.

The Jazz were led by Jordan Clarkson's 37 points and five assists. They drew their deficit to just one with 40 seconds left.

The Suns will face Utah again on Sunday.