Suns Scoot Past Thunder, Win Fifth Straight Game

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The Phoenix Suns emerged victorious in 128-118 fashion over the Oklahoma City Thunder for their fifth consecutive victory, the first such string of wins since late November.
It wasn't always easy sailing for the Suns, who led by as much as 16 in the game. OKC battled back to make things interesting late but ultimately couldn't gain the advantage when it was needed most.
Kevin Durant led the team in scoring with 35 points go along with five rebounds, five assists and two blocks. Phoenix is now 6-0 with Durant healthy and in the lineup.
Deandre Ayton (19 points, 11 rebounds), Chris Paul (16 points, eight assists) and Devin Booker (22 points, 10 assists) also chipped in respectable efforts.
Oklahoma City was led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who amassed 39 points, five assists and two steals on the night.
Both teams struggled to hit three's tonight (the Suns shot 38.2% while OKC managed to shoot 34.4% from downtown). The Thunder shot 41 free throws to Phoenix's 28.
The Suns shot an impressive 56.8% from the field.
Plenty of talk has surrounded Phoenix's bench as the postseason nears. They scored 22 points in the first half but only 7 in the final two quarters of play.
Darius Bazley, Jock Landale and Damion Lee did not play for Phoenix.
The Suns are four games back from the Sacramento Kings for the No. 3 seed after tonight.
Phoenix is back at home for a Tuesday matchup with the San Antonio Spurs.

Donnie Druin is the Publisher for Arizona Cardinals and Phoenix Suns On SI. Donnie moved to Arizona in 2012 and has been with the company since 2018. In college he won "Best Sports Column" in the state of Arizona for his section and has previously provided coverage for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Arizona State Sun Devils. Follow Donnie on Twitter @DonnieDruin for more news, updates, analysis and more!