The Phoenix Suns expect to have two reinforcements available Tuesday in Sacramento. Star guard Devin Booker, sidelined for the past four games with a right-hip strain, has been removed from the club’s injury report. Phoenix went 2-2 without its top scorer and ranked 29th in offensive rating during that span.
Recently signed swingman Haywood Highsmith is also absent from Tuesday’s injury list, positioning him for his season debut. Highsmith underwent surgery on a torn meniscus in his right knee last August, suffered a setback in October, was traded from Miami to Brooklyn in the offseason, waived by the Nets last month, and then signed by Phoenix while ramping up his return.
Dillon Brooks (left-hand fracture) and Jordan Goodwin (left-calf strain) remain out, leaving Highsmith an opportunity to claim rotation minutes on the wing.
League-wide injury notes
Zion Williamson missed Sunday’s contest with an ankle sprain, ending his career-best run of 35 consecutive games played. The Pelicans forward is listed as questionable for Tuesday against the Lakers but told ESPN’s Malika Andrews he expects to play. Appearing in at least 16 of New Orleans’ final 20 games would guarantee 80% of his $42.2 million salary for 2026-27; the remaining 20% could become guaranteed if he meets weight clauses.
The Miami Heat will be without Nikola Jovic for a fifth straight game Tuesday due to lower-back inflammation. The forward/center said scans revealed inflammation and an irritated nerve but no disc damage, adding, “My back doesn’t feel good.”
Moses Moody jammed his wrist and hurt his shoulder during Golden State’s loss to the Clippers on Monday. Head coach Steve Kerr said the swingman will undergo further evaluation Tuesday.
Kristaps Porzingis missed a fifth consecutive game Monday because of an illness. Kerr described the situation as “a little mysterious” and said the Warriors’ medical staff is working to determine when the big man can return.
Source: HoopsRumors
