Suns Change Starting Lineup vs Magic

Phoenix looks to get back on track without Devin Booker

Feb. 21, 2026 at 9:34pm

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The Phoenix Suns are hoping to end their recent losing streak as they take on the Orlando Magic. With Devin Booker out, the Suns have adjusted their starting lineup to feature players like Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and Mark Williams. Head coach Jordan Ott emphasized the need for his team to be physical against the driving Magic players.

Why it matters

The Suns have lost four of their last five games and need to get back on track to maintain their playoff positioning in the Western Conference. Adjusting the starting lineup without their star player Booker will be a test for the team's depth and ability to adapt.

The details

The Suns' new starting lineup includes Collin Gillespie, Jalen Green, Royce O'Neale, Dillon Brooks, and Mark Williams. Coach Ott said the team needs to be physical and withstand the initial bump from the driving Magic players, especially Van Carroll who is one of the league's most physical drivers.

  • The game is scheduled for 3:00 PM MST on Saturday, February 21, 2026.
  • This is the first of a back-to-back for the Suns, with the Portland Trail Blazers visiting tomorrow.

The players

Jordan Ott

The head coach of the Phoenix Suns.

Devin Booker

The star player for the Phoenix Suns who is out for this game.

Jalen Green

A Suns player who is part of the new starting lineup, scoring 26 points in the team's last game.

Dillon Brooks

A Suns player who is returning to the starting lineup after a suspension.

Mark Williams

A Suns player who is part of the new starting lineup.

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What they’re saying

“The last handful of games, I don't think we've been there, some of that's going into the break. San Antonio's unique roster build of type of athletes that those guys are, defensively, they come right to your chest. That's kind of how the game is moving.”

— Jordan Ott, Head Coach (si.com)

“The ball handler gets the advantage, and he's allowed to get the advantage. You got to withstand it and it's one-on-one, a lot of times it's right through your chest. Tonight, that's the same challenge. These guys are physical drivers. We know they want to get into the paint, they want to get to the rim. That's their advantage. We got to withstand that first bump as much as we want to support you.”

— Jordan Ott, Head Coach (si.com)

“All these nights are gonna be competitive, and everyone's gonna bring their best, especially here. We're not sneaking up on anyone.”

— Jordan Ott, Head Coach (si.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.