The Phoenix Suns are looking for payback as they face off against the Minnesota Timberwolves, the team that ended their championship dreams in the previous playoffs. This will be the first meeting between the two teams since the Suns' heartbreaking defeat, highlighted by a memorable dunk from Timberwolves' rookie Anthony Edwards that sealed the series. The Suns will also be missing their star player Kevin Durant, who is still recovering from a calf injury. However, the Suns have a tough schedule ahead, including games against the Orlando Magic and New York Knicks, before their highly anticipated rematch against the Los Angeles Lakers.
Kevin Durant's Suns Debut Delayed as Phoenix Prepares for Revenge against Timberwolves
The Phoenix Suns are set to begin their NBA season with a chip on their shoulder, eager to avenge their playoff exit at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves. The two teams will square off for the first time since the Suns' heartbreaking defeat in the Western Conference semifinals, which ended their championship aspirations.
Background:
The Suns entered the 2022-23 season with high hopes, led by All-Star Devin Booker and a supporting cast that included Deandre Ayton, Chris Paul, and Mikal Bridges. However, they faced adversity early on, with Durant suffering a calf injury that has sidelined him for the start of the season.
Despite the setback, the Suns have remained competitive, with Booker leading the way. They currently hold a 12-10 record, including impressive wins over the Golden State Warriors and Denver Nuggets.
Timberwolves Revenge Game:
The Timberwolves, who upset the Suns in six games last season, will be looking to continue their success against their Western Conference rivals. The game will be particularly emotional for rookie Anthony Edwards, whose thunderous dunk in Game 7 sealed the series victory.
The Suns will be without Durant for the highly anticipated rematch, but they will have a chance to prove that they can compete with the Timberwolves even without their star.
Upcoming Schedule:
After facing the Timberwolves, the Suns have a tough schedule ahead, including games against the Orlando Magic, New York Knicks, and Los Angeles Lakers. The Lakers game will be especially significant, as it will be the Lakers' first home game since trading Russell Westbrook to the Utah Jazz.
Top 5 FAQs:
When will Kevin Durant return to the Suns?
Who will replace Durant in the starting lineup?
Are the Suns still contenders without Durant?
Who is the favorite in the Timberwolves-Suns game?
What is the Lakers' record after trading Westbrook?
The Daily Mail Sport team provides live coverage of Arsenal's Premier League match against Wolves at the Emirates Stadium. Despite Arsenal extending their lead at the top of the league, they struggle to break through the defense of one of the worst teams in Premier League history, ultimately securing a hard-fought victory.
During Lionel Messi's recent visit to Kolkata as part of his GOAT India Tour, chaos broke out at Salt Lake Stadium as disappointed and agitated fans began destroying property when they were unable to properly see the Argentinian soccer legend. The event organiser has been arrested and an inquiry committee set up by the Chief Minister to investigate the incident. Despite the chaos, Messi's next stop in Hyderabad is expected to go as planned.
Lionel Messi's highly anticipated India tour has reached its second day as the Argentinian star forward heads to Mumbai. Fans can expect an action-packed day as Messi is set to take part in the Padel Cup and a football match with celebrities. A charity event and an appearance at the Wankhede Stadium are also on the schedule. The tour had a rocky start in Kolkata, with chaos ensuing when fans couldn't catch a glimpse of Messi, but ended on a positive note in Hyderabad with a football match with fans and the state's CM.
Despite a late equaliser from Wolves, Arsenal managed to secure a 2-1 win thanks to a second own goal in the 94th minute. However, manager Mikel Arteta was critical of his team's performance, branding certain aspects as "unacceptable" and "horrible". The win extends Arsenal's lead at the top of the Premier League to five points, but their defensive mistakes against the league's bottom club raise concerns for the manager.
In a nail-biting match, Arsenal's Bukayo Saka played a pivotal role in securing a 2-1 win against Wolves. After previously conceding late goals in other matches, Saka was relieved to be on the other end this time, scoring an own goal and contributing to the winner. Despite the tense ending, the team showed resilience and determination, a trait that Saka praised before looking ahead to their next match against Everton.
In a press conference, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta defended his summer signing Viktor Gyokeres against critics after a lackluster performance in a 2-1 win against Wolves. Despite an opportunity to score against the Premier League's bottom side, Gyokeres could not convert any of his five touches. Arteta and others point to the need for better service, but this is not the first time the striker has failed to make an impact for Arsenal.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has dismissed rumors of selling Gabriel Jesus and has declared him as the team's first-choice striker. With the Brazilian international nearing the end of his contract and competition from other strikers, Arteta's statement comes as a relief for fans. Meanwhile, Arteta has also commented on the role of club captain Martin Odegaard, who faces tough competition from Eberechi Eze for a spot in the team.
Arsenal's rising star Gabriel Martinelli continues to make history as the first player in the club's history to score in five consecutive Champions League matches. In a stunning display, Martinelli scored the third goal for Arsenal against Club Brugge, securing their victory. This impressive performance solidifies Martinelli's position as one of Arsenal's most promising players and has fans eagerly anticipating his future success.
Mikel Arteta expressed his gratitude for Arsenal's late surge in a crucial victory over Wolves. Despite a rocky start, the Gunners managed to find a way to win, with some impressive performances from star players. Arteta also gave credit to Wolves for putting up a tough fight, making the win all the more satisfying for Arsenal fans. The coach also shared his admiration for Gyokeres, whose contribution made Arsenal a stronger team on the field.
As Arsenal prepares to face Wolves at the Emirates Stadium, manager Mikel Arteta must navigate suspensions, fitness doubts, and careful minutes planning. With the visit of Wolves providing an opportunity to consolidate their position in the Premier League, the predicted lineup reveals how Arteta sees this important phase of the season. William Saliba's potential absence highlights Arsenal's reliance on versatile defenders and the potential deployment of a technical, possession-oriented trio in midfield against a defensively sound Wolves side.