PHOENIX — Through three games of their first-round playoff series, slight frustration is building among Phoenix Suns fans — and much of it is centered on franchise cornerstone Devin Booker.
Apr 25, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) drives on Oklahoma City Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein (55) in the second half during game three of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
After falling into an 0-3 hole against the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder, questions are emerging about whether Booker can still serve as the primary engine of a postseason contender. While many fans understood it would be an uphill battle for the club to advance, and some would not consider a sweep a failure, there was still an expectation that their All-Star would deliver more under the brightest spotlight.
The numbers from the series tell a troubling story.
In Game 1, Booker scored 23 points but struggled in a 119-84 loss, as Phoenix shot just 34.9% and committed costly turnovers. In Game 3, he was held to 16 points on 6-of-16 shooting in a 121-109 defeat, again failing to keep pace with Oklahoma City as it surged to a commanding series lead.
Apr 25, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) drives past Phoenix Suns guard Jalen Green (4) in the second half during game three of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
In contrast, Oklahoma City’s offensive engine Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been dominant, carrying much of the load while averaging 34.7 points in the series, including a 42-point performance in Game 3. The disparity between the two stars has become increasingly difficult for Phoenix fans to ignore.
This isn’t the first time postseason expectations have rested on Booker’s shoulders. But with a retooled roster featuring players such as Dillon Brooks and Jalen Green contributing, the lack of a dominant, stabilizing presence from Booker has been glaring.
Apr 25, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) shoots on Oklahoma City Thunder center Chet Holmgren (7) in the second half during game three of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
Suns fans recognize the team may be ahead of schedule in its broader timeline, with many analysts not expecting a playoff position this soon. Still, the question is no longer just about progress — it is about potential. How far can this version of the Suns go with Booker as its focal point?
Game 4 now presents more than a chance to avoid elimination. It offers Booker an opportunity to redefine the narrative surrounding his postseason leadership and remind both fans and critics why the franchise has placed its future in his hands.
Will the Phoenix Suns need to lean more on their bench vs. Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 4?