What happened: Luke Kennard finished with 20 points to pace Phoenix to its first preseason victory. He shot 4-for from three-point range and added five rebounds with four assists.

Why it matters: The performance gives Phoenix an early look at bench spacing entering the 2026-27 season. Kennard joined Phoenix on a two-year, $13 million deal to add perimeter shooting around its starters.

What to watch: Phoenix continues preseason with backcourt rotation minutes still to sort. Kennard's usage alongside the starters bears watching.