Wizards Defeat Suns 127-102

Looking to build momentum off a big win in Memphis, the Phoenix Suns were unable to fully overcome the absence of three backcourt players in a 127-102 loss to the Washington Wizards.

The game was absent of perhaps the two biggest (or highest-paid) stars in Bradley Beal and Devin Booker. Beal, just dealing with a hamstring injury, is considered day-to-day and could return in Washington's next game.

Booker, on the other hand, was confirmed to have a groin strain and will be out for at least the next four weeks. Cam Payne and Landry Shamet were also missing in Washington.

The Wizards controlled the pace for most of the game, as the Suns led 2-0 and trailed the rest of the way. Washington led by as much as 19 at one point.

Phoenix has now allowed 125+ points in four straight games.

Deandre Ayton scored a season-high 31 points, the third time he's hit 30+ this season. Chris Paul (20) and Mikal Bridges (17) also chipped in.

Rui Hachimura, who the Suns reportedly did not want in trade talks, scored a career-high 30 points, the second time in three games he's scored over 20 as a role player.

He outscored Phoenix's bench 30-24.

Even in spite of Ayton's dominant display, Washington dominated the paint in rebounds 46-30. The Suns were outscored in the paint 60-28.

Phoenix has now lost their last four-of-five games. They continue their road trip on Friday when the Toronto Raptors host them.