Suns Look to Avenge Blowout Loss Against Streaking Trail Blazers

The Phoenix Suns will get another crack at the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday night, hoping to rebound from a 127-108 defeat in the opener of their two-game set. Meanwhile, the Trail Blazers continue to roll, winning seven of their last eight games while displaying a newfound confidence and team chemistry.

Ayton’s Revenge Game Fuels Portland

The biggest storyline from Saturday’s matchup was Deandre Ayton’s dominance against his former team. The former No. 1 overall pick dropped 24 points on 11-of-12 shooting, making his presence felt in the paint.

🔥 Ayton’s Last 4 Games:
✔ 22.3 PPG, 11.0 RPG
✔ 21-of-24 FG in last 2 games
✔ 4 straight 20+ point performances

“I’m here to beat teams, man,” Ayton said postgame. “We’re trying to change the tradition here into a winning culture.”

Suns Seeking Answers After Defensive Collapse

Phoenix (32-18) entered Saturday’s game as winners of nine of their last 12, but their defensive lapses allowed Portland to score 98 points in three quarters—making any comeback attempt futile.

Despite the loss, Devin Booker stayed red-hot, scoring 37 points for his second straight 30+ point game, while Kevin Durant added 22.

Booker acknowledged the Blazers’ improved play:
“They came out and straight up beat us. They’re playing with confidence, and they’re playing well right now.”

Can Phoenix Respond?

The Suns will need to adjust defensively and slow down Ayton inside if they want to even the series.

🟠 Keys for the Suns:
✅ Tighter interior defense against Ayton
✅ More ball movement—only 21 assists last game
✅ Stronger start—trailed by 27 at one point

With both teams playing inspired basketball, this rematch promises to be a must-watch showdown. Will the Suns bounce back, or will Portland extend its dominant stretch?

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