Bradley Beal is back in the Phoenix Suns starting lineup for the first time since Jan. 4, getting the nod at guard over Tyus Jones who moves to the bench on Saturday against the Chicago Bulls.

Beal had come off the bench for the past 15 games he has played in — he missed seven over the span. In Thursday’s loss to San Antonio, Beal pitched in 19 points and six assists in just shy of 33 minutes of action.

Jones moves to the bench for the first time this season, and the first time since April 7, 2023, as a member of the Memphis Grizzlies. As the Suns starting point guard, Jones is averaging 10.9 points on 44.8% shooting from the field and 5.9 assists to 1.4 turnovers.

The change comes as the Suns find themselves fighting for a play-in spot, currently at 11th in the West. Star guard Devin Booker has taken on more of a point guard role, taking much of the primary ball-handler duties — a role Jones was specifically brought in to do after Phoenix played largely without a point guard in 2023-24.

Suns head coach Mike Budenholzer said before Saturday’s game that the team is always looking at different ways to rotate their stable of guards.

“We’re always looking at different combinations. Brad has been playing that backup point guard role and Brad and Devin together and even Grayson (Allen),” he said. “We feel like all those guys can handle it. We’re always looking at it, always trying to figure out how we can be our best and appreciate what Devin can do handling it, what Brad can do handling it. What Tyus brings to us. We’re always looking at everything.”

Budenholzer also noted that Jones organizes the team and is “a guy that’s looking to get everybody involved. Has a comfort level with that spot. He’s been good.”

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