Durant’s Heroics Propel Suns to Narrow Victory Over 76ers in George’s Debut

PHOENIX — The Phoenix Suns edged out the Philadelphia 76ers 118-116 on Monday night, marking their fifth consecutive victory. Kevin Durant played a pivotal role, scoring 35 points and delivering a crucial layup with 24 seconds remaining to break a tie.

Bradley Beal contributed 17 points while Jusuf Nurkic recorded a double-double, tallying 15 points and 15 rebounds. This win came as Paul George made his long-awaited debut for the 76ers after recovering from a bone bruise in his left knee.

George, in 32 minutes, managed 15 points, five rebounds, and four assists, although he shot just 4 of 14 from the field. Unfortunately for Philadelphia fans, George missed a potential game-tying shot in the final moments.

On the 76ers’ side, Tyrese Maxey was a standout, scoring 32 points and hitting 6 of 14 from beyond the arc. Guerschon Yabusele added 19 points off the bench, while Kyle Lowry contributed 13 points, all scored in the first half.

Despite a spirited effort, Philadelphia fell to a dismal 1-5 record. They struggled with foul issues, especially George in the first half, who showed improvement in the second quarter with 10 of his points.

Suns’ standout moments included strategic plays from both Beal and Nurkic, with Beal also securing five rebounds despite earlier concerns about his right elbow injury. Devin Booker, on the other hand, faced shooting woes, finishing with only 13 points and missing all six of his three-point attempts.

The game’s pivotal moment came from Durant’s decisive late-game basket, sealing Phoenix’s victory. Looking ahead, both teams will take to the court again on Wednesday night, with the 76ers set to visit the Los Angeles Clippers and the Suns preparing to face the Miami Heat.

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