The Suns dominate the Sixers with Jalen Green’s return
Jan 20, 2026; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) drives against Philadelphia 76ers guard Vj Edgecombe (77) during the first quarter at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
The Phoenix Suns took advantage of the absence of Joel Embiid and Paul George to defeat the Philadelphia Sixers 116-110 on Tuesday night. This victory, the third consecutive for Phoenix, was marked by the highly anticipated return of Jalen Green after more than two months of absence.
Devin Booker led the Suns’ offense with 27 points, well supported by a particularly productive bench. Grayson Allen and Jordan Goodwin each scored 16 points, while Collin Gillespie and Oso Ighodaro added 12 points each. This depth of roster made the difference against a depleted Sixers team.
Jalen Green’s encouraging return after his injury
Jalen Green played only his third game of the season, and his first since November 8, due to a hamstring injury. The former Houston Rockets player, who arrived in Phoenix in the trade that sent Kevin Durant to Houston, showed encouraging signs with 12 points in 20 minutes.
Green made 4 shots on 11 attempts, including 2 of 4 from 3-point range, with 3 assists and 2 rebounds. His nice stepback 3-pointer in the third quarter was particularly impressive and reminded everyone of his offensive skills. His ability to create his own shot should significantly help Phoenix in their quest for a top 6 spot in the Western Conference.
Jalen Green just POPS when he’s on the court, and it’s safe to say he’s only 75-80% right now.
Real scary hours for the rest of the West if he fits with the Suns like I think he will… pic.twitter.com/mqISLP7bst
— Erik Ruby (@ErikRuby) January 21, 2026
On the Philadelphia side, rookie VJ Edgecombe led the team with 25 points and 7 rebounds, taking advantage of extended playing time. Kelly Oubre Jr. added 21 points against his former team, making 5 three-pointers, his best total since March 2024. Tyrese Maxey, despite his selection as an All-Star Game starter, struggled with 20 points on 7 of 25 shooting.
The Suns made the difference in the third quarter, dominating that period 40-31 and building a decisive lead. Perfect from the free-throw line (20/20) and more accurate from 3-point range (16/39 at 41%), they punished a defensively disorganized Sixers team. Despite a comeback attempt late in the game, Philadelphia was never able to fully close the gap.
This victory brings the Suns’ record to 27-17, consolidating their position in the Western Conference with 12 wins in their last 16 games. For the Sixers (23-19), it’s a fourth loss in six games that confirms their struggles at home this season.
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