Suns Rule Out Booker Bridges Against Spurs in Preseason Opener

The Phoenix Suns ruled out Devin Booker and Miles Bridges for their preseason home opener against the San Antonio Spurs at Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, with head coach Jordan Ott citing rest for Booker and an ankle injury precaution for Bridges, as the team manages its 2026-27 preseason rotation.

According to SI.com, Bridges rolled his ankle in Phoenix's previous game and could return next Wednesday after X-rays came back negative. Booker was held out as part of the team's plan to distribute playing time during preseason.

Booker entered the game after a slow start from three-point range, going 1-for-12 from deep in preseason action, according to SI.com. Ott said the guard's overall impact remained a focus beyond his early shooting numbers.

"He’s going to continue making the right play, and he’s going to continue averaging over 25 points a game like he’s done his whole life. If the game calls for him to be a passer, he’s going to be a passer. He’s a high-level basketball player and he’s shown he can do it, whatever the game calls for," said Jordan Ott, head coach.

Ott also discussed Phoenix's approach with multiple starters unavailable, saying the team would emphasize habits on both ends of the court. The Suns entered the matchup with an 0-2 preseason record, according to SI.com.

"Somebody that can get the rebound and push the break, and then he can exploit matchups that aren't his size, so he can take advantage of the mismatches," said Devin Booker, Phoenix Suns guard.

Booker described Bridges' versatility after Phoenix acquired the power forward, while coaches and teammates highlighted Bridges' physical style, according to SI.com.

"I think part of that is just continue to build the habits that we've talked about since camp opened. You never know who the other team is going to play in these preseason games, so it's more about us building our habits on both sides of the ball," said Jordan Ott, head coach.

Ott added that Phoenix wanted a stronger defensive start after its opening quarter against Chicago did not meet the team's expectations, according to SI.com. The Suns continued their preseason schedule with lineup adjustments because of the absences.