Suns Coach Monty Williams Optimistic Chris Paul Will Return
The Phoenix Suns are currently down 2-0 against the Denver Nuggets in their second-round series, and though the team is returning home for Games 3 and 4 this weekend, the Suns are probable to be without Chris Paul after suffering a groin strain in Game 2's loss.
The Suns officially deemed Paul as day-to-day, though NBA insider Shams Charania first reported Paul would be re-evaluated in a week while Phoenix prepared to be without their starting point guard for potentially the next three games.
However, at practice today, Suns head coach Monty Williams appeared to be optimistic that Paul would return at some point.
"Gratefully he didn't tear it or something like that … You always have to look at the bright side of tough situations and tough breaks. We're just grateful it wasn't worse than we thought," said Williams, who confirmed Paul wasn't able to practice today.
"I'm optimistic because I believe in a number of things. Our medical staff, Chris fights his tail off to get back - we just have to wait and see."
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After Game 2's loss, Josh Okogie said the Suns are more than capable of stepping up in Paul's potential absence.
“I mean, whenever you lose your floor general, it is definitely a big loss. But this is a next man up league and I feel like we have more than enough to be able to sustain," said Okogie.
However, barely anybody from Phoenix's rotation has stepped up when called upon. Guards such as Cameron Payne, Landry Shamet and Damion Lee have failed to impress while Terrence Ross has barely seen the floor this postseason.
Time will tell on Paul's availability - though the Suns will need every ounce of help possible. They've never overcome a 2-0 series deficit in a seven-game series.
Game 3 will be Friday, May 5 at 7:00 PM PST.
