The third game of the 2026-27 season is on the horizon for the Phoenix Suns.

Phoenix is taking on the Oklahoma City Thunder in a road game on Monday night. This serves as the first time the two squads have met since Oklahoma City swept the Suns in the first round of April's playoffs.

While this matchup carries plenty of intrigue, there are also to-the-minute developments that are sure to change the complexion of the contest. 

The Thunder saw star forward Jalen Williams exit their Sunday night victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on a stretcher. 

This came after the All-NBA forward landed awkwardly on his left leg after attempting a shot in the lane. His leg was subsequently placed in an air-cast as his teammates were despondent on the court. 

It's safe to say that the Phoenix-area native will not be playing on Monday night, and this carries heavy implications for the Suns.

Right off the bat is the size advantage that the Suns will have on the wings. There's a possibility that Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault decides to start Alex Caruso in Williams' place. 

This gives the Suns a considerable height and strength advantage with Dillon Brooks and Miles Bridges, although the translation may not be that simple with Caruso's versatile defensive chops, impeccable timing in offensive playmaking, and shooting capabilities.

The Suns will be without Drew Timme (two-way contract) and Mark Williams (left shoulder surgery) as of Sunday's official injury report.

On another unfortunate note, it seems as if Oso Ighodaro will once again sit out, as he carries a doubtful tag. On the flip side of what is above, this is a major advantage to the Thunder. Oklahoma City will be able to throw Chet Holmgren, Isaiah Hartenstein, and Aday Mara at Khaman Maluach. 

This is also under the backdrop of Duop Reath serving as the primary reserve for Maluach. Head coach Jordan Ott will need to be creative when crafting rotations against a versatile, rangy, and physical Oklahoma City roster.

Whether this includes five-out sets, a heavy dosage of high-energy players (such as Jordan Goodwin), or in placing an emphasis on three-point marksmanship, the Suns will have their work cut out for them to secure their second win of the year.

The Suns and Thunder are tipping off shortly after 5:00 P.M. MST.