Why is Devin Booker not playing tonight against Denver Nuggets? Latest on Suns star's absence (Dec. 23)

Devin Booker will miss his second straight game for the Phoenix Suns when they visit the Denver Nuggets on Monday. Booker is dealing with a left groin soreness. The Suns expect Booker to play on Christmas Day in the rematch with Denver. The All-Star has been relatively healthy this season, playing 26 of 27 games, but will be out for his second game.

The Suns couldn't get the win in his first absence against the Detroit Pistons on Saturday, losing 133-125 despite Kevin Durant's 43-point effort. It could be an uphill battle again on Monday against Denver. The Suns need better production from the bench and keep a check on their turnovers (19 vs. Pistons) to get the job done.

---

Suns HC Mike Budenholzer reacts to Devin Booker's December injury history

For some odd reason, Devin Booker's past few seasons during December haven't been favorable. He's often been injured during this stretch of the season. Interestingly, it has been a groin or hamstring issue that has previously limited Booker. With a groin issue impacting him this year, Mike Budenholzer was asked about his All-Star's poor luck with health issues during this period.

"It's definitely been brought up, it's definitely been discussed," Budenholzer said on Saturday. "Devin's aware, but it's like in a healthy way, in a good place. So, the timing of it sounds kind of unique. ...

"There's definitely an awareness. There's definitely conversation with Devin. But I don't think it's gonna change to be overly analyzed or anything like that. Just appropriately analyzed."

Devin Booker has dealt with lengthier absences, but that doesn't seem to be the case. He seems to be in better shape this year relatively and is the most available of the three stars on the Suns.

---

How to watch Phoenix Suns vs. Denver Nuggets game?

Arizona's Family 3TV / Arizona's Family Sports and Atltitude will provide coverage of the Phoenix Suns-Denver Nuggets game in the local regions. Other viewers can catch live action online via NBA League Pass. Ball Arena, the Nuggets' homecourt, will host this clash. The game begins at 10:00 p.m. ET.

The Suns are 14-13, 11th in the West, while the Nuggets are 15-11, fifth in the conference.