Phoenix Suns face largest deficit of season in loss to Boston Celtics

The Phoenix Suns had a difficult start for the second straight game Wednesday, as the Boston Celtics jumped ahead 69-42 at halftime from Footprint Center.

The second half did not get much better, as the Celtics (21-5) went up by as many as 45 points in a 125-98 route.

The Suns (16-9) missed their first eight shots from behind the arc, and finished the game shooting 8-for-32 from deep.

Turnovers piled up, as well, as Phoenix gave the ball away 18 times

Boston paced Phoenix 31-21 in the opening 12 minutes, and led by as many as 27 points in the second.

There was a moment with the Suns down 12 in the second quarter that looked to be a turning point, but wing Josh Okogie — who had 28 points — missed a layup and the Celtics went on a 12-0 run.

Boston outscored Phoenix 11-2 to open the third quarter squashing any chance of a possible comeback attempt.

The top scoring options for Phoenix struggled to get going against a strong Boston defensive effort, as Devin Booker started the game 2-for-8 and Mikal Bridges 1-for-8.

Phoenix was not helped by Booker getting into foul trouble with four in the first half.

Point guard Chris Paul started after missing 14 games with a heel injury and had four points, four assists and three turnovers.

Meanwhile, the Celtics had five players score in double figures and made 16 three-pointers.

The Suns had won seven of eight games ahead of a loss in Dallas on Monday and have now dropped two straight.

They head on the road to face the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday and Sunday.

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