PHOENIX SUNS

Jalen Smith evaporates Mason Plumlee in Suns’ poster dunk of the year

Jan 2, 2022, 6:47 PM

Someone contact the authorities.

In the third quarter of the Phoenix Suns’ matchup against the Charlotte Hornets on Sunday, center Jalen Smith rose up off an action with Chris Paul and detonated right on Charlotte center Mason Plumlee.

There are numerous terrific reactions to monitor here, from Paul flexing under the basket to point guard Cam Payne on the bench falling over.

Then there’s Smith himself, showing the most emotion he has in his Suns career with the flex and jawing. That got him a technical foul, which is one the Suns will take more than just about any other this year.

Smith got his second straight start after center JaVale McGee joined Deandre Ayton in health and safety protocols. With both Frank Kaminsky and Dario Saric dealing with long-term injuries, Smith has had an opportunity for real playing time and has taken advantage of it.

The second-year pro had a double-double in the first half on Sunday and entered the night averaging 15 points and 10 rebounds since coming into the rotation three games ago.

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