The 1-2 Phoenix Suns are returning to action on Friday night in the first game of NBA Cup action against the 2-2 Denver Nuggets.

The Suns are coming off a three day break in the midst of two blowout losses in the first week of the season. The Nuggets are struggling themselves, making this a premier opportunity to pick up a victory. 

Questions still remain if the Suns will be at full-strength heading into the game however, as Oso Ighodaro is working back from an oblique injury.

The 9:15 EST official injury report lists Ighodaro as questionable due to the oblique injury. This follows the two games after the season-opener in which there was little chance he would suit up.

This is a massive development for a Suns team that is already down Mark Williams. Duop Reath remains a decent option in a pinch, but the team would prefer to maximize the 45 game window he has under the two-way deal.

Local insider John Gambadoro added that the expectation is for Ighodaro to make a return on Friday. If he doesn't return against Denver, the full blown expectation is in making a return for the rematch with the Golden State Warriors on Monday. 

As previously alluded to, the re-insertion of Ighodaro into the lineup is crucial for Phoenix in many ways. The third-year center provides a reliable rim protector that is mobile and fully able to guard the perimeter in doses. Beyond this, Ighodaro also provides a reliable secondary or tertiary playmaker, whether it's as a screener, offensive hub on the high block, or as a fast-break starter.

The hope is that the former second round pick will be able to further compliment Khaman Maluach, who is still finding footing in year two. 

As for Denver, the Nuggets will be missing two key players. Julian Strawther and Spencer Jones are out due to respective knee/hamstring injuries. This is a major deal for a Denver team that saw a large collective of depth from last season depart over the summer. 

The final piece to the equation is in wing Cam Johnson, who is questionable due to an ankle sprain. Johnson will be more than welcome to make a return to Phoenix in game action, and his presence might be necessary if Denver wants to squeeze out a victory.

Suns-Nuggets is tipping off shortly after 7:00 P.M. MST on Friday night.