Devin Booker to Miss 2025 Season Following Knee Surgery, Head Coach Reveals Heartbreaking News
Phoenix, AZ – In a devastating blow to the Phoenix Suns and their championship aspirations, star shooting guard Devin Booker will miss the entire 2025 NBA season after undergoing knee surgery. Suns head coach Mike Budenholzer confirmed the heartbreaking news in a press conference earlier today, leaving fans and teammates stunned.
A Sudden Setback
Booker, a three-time NBA All-Star and one of the league’s most prolific scorers, sustained the knee injury during offseason workouts. While initial reports suggested it was a minor issue, further medical evaluation revealed structural damage that required immediate surgical intervention. The procedure, which took place earlier this week, was deemed successful, but his rehabilitation timeline will keep him out for the entirety of the 2025 season.
“This is tough,” Budenholzer said. “Devin is the heart and soul of our team, and to lose him for the season is devastating. His health comes first, and we’re going to support him throughout his recovery process. We know he’ll come back stronger than ever.”
A Major Loss for the Suns
Booker has been the face of the Suns since being drafted 13th overall in 2015. His leadership and elite scoring ability helped transform Phoenix into a perennial contender, culminating in an NBA Finals appearance in 2021. Last season, he averaged 27.1 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game, solidifying his status as one of the league’s most dominant guards.
With his absence, the Suns will need to adjust their strategy both offensively and defensively. Phoenix’s front office now faces the daunting task of reshuffling the roster to compensate for the loss of their primary scorer and playmaker.
“This changes things for us,” said Suns General Manager James Jones. “There’s no replacing a player like Devin, but we have to find ways to stay competitive. We trust our group, and we’ll explore all options to make sure we put the best team on the floor.”
Who Steps Up?
Without Booker, the responsibility to lead the offense will likely fall on Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal. Both players are capable scorers, but Booker’s absence will require them to take on even larger roles. The Suns may also look to their younger players, such as Grayson Allen and Jordan Goodwin, to step up in his place.
Durant, a two-time NBA champion, addressed the situation, expressing confidence in the team’s ability to persevere.
“We all feel for Book, man,” Durant said. “He works so hard, and we know how much he loves the game. It’s tough, but we’ve got a job to do. We’ll hold it down until he’s back.”
A Long Road to Recovery
While the Suns prepare for life without their star, Booker will focus on his rehabilitation. The recovery process for knee surgeries can be grueling, requiring months of physical therapy and conditioning before returning to peak form. Despite the challenge, Booker remains optimistic about his return.
In a statement released by the team, Booker addressed his fans and teammates:
> “This isn’t the news I wanted, but I’m staying positive. I appreciate all the love and support. I’ll be back, and I’ll be better. In the meantime, I’ll be cheering on my guys every step of the way.”
Fans and NBA Community React
The news of Booker’s injury sent shockwaves through the NBA community, with players, analysts, and fans expressing their support. Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James took to social media, tweeting:
> “Prayers up for my brother DBook. Wishing you a strong recovery, fam.”
Meanwhile, Suns fans flooded social media with messages of encouragement. Phoenix resident and longtime fan Jake Martinez shared his thoughts:
> “This is heartbreaking. Book is our guy, and not seeing him play this year is going to be tough. But I know he’ll come back stronger, and we’ll be ready when he does.”
Looking Ahead
With Booker sidelined, the Suns face an uphill battle in the highly competitive Western Conference. The team must now rely on its depth, coaching adjustments, and potential roster moves to remain a contender.
As for Booker, his absence is a tough pill to swallow, but if his past resilience is any indication, he will return stronger than ever. For now, Suns fans will have to wait until 2026 to see their franchise star back on the court.
One thing is certain: when Devin Booker makes his return, the NBA will be watching.
