"Load management in first game is crazy": NBA fans accuse Devin Booker and Bradley Beal for ducking smoke with injury updates for opening nightÂ
Devin Booker and Bradley Beal have both found themselves on the receiving end of some criticism from fans this week. Ahead of the start of the 2023-24 NBA season, both men are dealing with some ailments that could keep them out of action against the Golden State Warriors. According to widespread reports, Beal is likely to miss the team's opener, while Booker is questionable.
In the case of Devin Booker, he is reportedly 50/50 on whether or not he will play in the team's opener. As the result of a toe injury, he could be held out. However, reports indicate that he will in fact warm up with the team in hopes of playing.
In the case of Bradley Beal, the Suns seem to be taking a conservative approach to a nagging back injury. Given the new load management criteria for nationally televised games, the news of both men probably sitting out the Suns' season opener hasn't gone over well.
Fans were quick to take to social media to give their thoughts about the situation. As many pointed out, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver likely isn't too pleased to see the news indicating that both are men expected to watch from the sidelines.
Check out some of the funniest reactions below.
Looking ahead at the Phoenix Suns' opening day matchup against the Golden State Warriors in wake of Bradley Beal and Devin Booker news
With the news of Bradley Beal being probably out against the Golden State Warriors and Devin Booker likely to miss the season opener as well, let's look at the Suns' opening game. Based on the Phoenix Suns' depth chart, we can see that the team doesn't have the most depth off the bench.
At the point guard spot, if Bradley Beal and Devin Booker are both sidelined, sophomore Jordan Goodwin will likely start for the team. Behind him at the shooting guard spot, expect Grayson Allen and Eric Gordon to handle duties.
In the case of the Golden State Warriors, they will be without Draymond Green as an ankle injury has sidelined the four-time champ for the team's opener. In his absence, expect the Warriors to start Kevon Looney at the center position, with Dario Saric getting big minutes off the bench.
Heading into the season, the Warriors notably opted not to sign Dwight Howard after the veteran worked out with the team. At the time, indications were that the Warriors wanted to keep their options open heading into the season.
While Green is out with an ankle sprain, his absence highlights the Warriors' need for another big man. Whether or not his absence spells trouble for the Warriors against the Phoenix Suns, given the two teams' respective absences, remains to be seen.