Suns’ Frank Kaminsky out with knee soreness vs. Mavericks

Phoenix Suns big man Frank Kaminsky is out with knee soreness against the Dallas Mavericks for a nationally televised tilt on Wednesday, according to the team.

The backup was listed as questionable heading into shootaround Wednesday, and he was seen standing on the sidelines during an open portion of the light practice, according to Arizona Sports’ Kellan Olson.

Appearing in nine of the Suns’ 13 games this year, Kaminsky is averaging 10.6 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1.4 assists in 20 minutes per outing.

In his strongest stretch of performances this year, Kaminsky played at least 23 minutes over five games in which the Suns were without starting center Deandre Ayton. That included a 31-point outburst for Kaminsky last Wednesday against the Portland Trail Blazers.

With Ayton returning Monday, Kaminsky saw only four minutes in a win against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Ayton hit his stride upon his return with 22 points and 12 rebounds against the T-Wolves. Behind him, JaVale McGee is likely to assume all the backup 5 minutes, with second-year man Jalen Smith providing more depth.

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