Suns-Magic live updates: Phoenix unveils new starting lineup in Brooks' return

Phoenix Suns continue four-game road trip against Orlando Magic as Dillon Brooks makes his return after missing 18 straight games.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 11:25pm

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The Phoenix Suns continue their four-game road trip on March 31 against the Orlando Magic at Kia Center. Dillon Brooks will make his return from a fractured left hand that sidelined him for 18 consecutive games. The Suns are starting Collin Gillespie, Devin Booker, Jalen Green, Oso Ighodaro and Brooks for the first time this season. Phoenix won the first matchup in double overtime, 113-110, on February 21 on Green's corner 3 at the buzzer.

Why it matters

The Suns have struggled in Brooks' absence, going 9-9 over the 18 games he missed. His return will provide a boost to the team's scoring and defense as they look to solidify their playoff positioning in the Western Conference.

The details

Dillon Brooks is averaging a career-high 20.9 points per game in his first season with the Suns. He fractured his left hand against the Magic in a previous matchup. The Suns are also getting Grayson Allen back after he missed Monday's game due to left knee injury management. Phoenix is without several key players due to injuries, including Mark Williams, Haywood Highsmith and Amir Coffey.

  • The game tips off at 4 p.m. on March 31.
  • Brooks has missed the last 18 consecutive games due to his fractured left hand.
  • The Suns won the first matchup against the Magic in double overtime on February 21.

The players

Dillon Brooks

A starting forward for the Phoenix Suns who is averaging a career-high 20.9 points per game in his first season with the team. He is returning from a fractured left hand that sidelined him for 18 straight games.

Devin Booker

The star shooting guard for the Phoenix Suns who is a key part of the team's starting lineup.

Jalen Green

The starting small forward for the Phoenix Suns who hit the game-winning 3-pointer in the team's previous matchup against the Magic.

Wendell Carter Jr.

The starting center for the Orlando Magic.

Paolo Banchero

The starting power forward for the Orlando Magic and a top rookie in the NBA this season.

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What they’re saying

“Dillon Brooks will make his return from a fractured left hand that sidelined him 18 consecutive games.”

— Duane Rankin, Suns Insider

What’s next

The Suns will look to build momentum with Brooks back in the lineup as they continue their four-game road trip. Their next game after the Magic will be against the Miami Heat on April 2.

The takeaway

Brooks' return is a significant boost for the Suns as they push for a strong finish to the regular season and playoff positioning. His scoring and defensive presence will be crucial as the team navigates the final stretch of the schedule.