Suns' Brooks sent to locker room after kicking Murray in the groin

The Phoenix Suns lost their leading scorer to a technical ejection during Friday night's contest against the Denver Nuggets. The incident occurred in the third quarter and forced forward Dillon Brooks to leave the floor.

Brooks attempted a turnaround jumper while guarded by Jamal Murray. As Brooks fell backward, he kicked his right leg forward, making contact with Murray's groin. The initial call was an offensive foul, but the officials reviewed the play on video.

Following the review, the crew upgraded the call to a Flagrant 2 foul. This classification mandates an automatic ejection. Murray remained on the court in pain for several moments before rising to stay in the game.

Brooks had been the Suns' top performer prior to his departure. He had accumulated 22 points on 9-of-12 shooting at the time of the ejection. The Suns, who were trailing the Nuggets, must now manage the final minutes without their most efficient offensive option.

The game was part of the NBA Cup schedule. Brooks' exit shifted the tactical balance for the remainder of the contest, requiring the Suns to rely on their remaining roster to defend against Denver's lineup.