Phoenix Wins 4-1 Over the Clippers

 Clippers vs. Suns Game 1 Predictions & Picks: NBA Playoffs 4/16 - Sports Illustrated Inside The Suns News, Analysis and More


Written By: Jack Nevins of Swish Tribune

    The Phoenix Suns took down the Los Angeles Clippers in 5, despite being one of the most hyped up first round Playoff matchups.

    The Suns and Clippers series featured Devin Booker, Russell Westbrook, Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard, Chris Paul, and more. NBA fans were excited to see a rematch of Westbrook and Durant, and although the beef between the ex-teammates is cleared, it is always fun to watch these two play. 

    Phoenix looked unstoppable, with Durant and Booker leading the charge. In all five contests, the new dynamic duo scored at least 25 points each. This tied Kobe and Shaq for the longest run of at least 25 points scored in a playoff appearance. Although Booker and KD are showing out each night, the Suns lack great depth. Chris Paul is now entering the late stages in his career and Deandre Ayton is inconsistent, not putting up the numbers needed on the offensive side of the ball.

    This lack of depth will be an issue when the Suns face off against the Nuggets. On paper, the Nuggets look a lot better, and add a two-time MVP, in Jokic, who is making his case for a third is even scarier. Booker and Durant will need to stay healthy for round two, so the Suns do not put so much reliance on the bench. 

    The Clippers were down in a big way. Without two all-stars in Paul George and Kawhi Leonard, it makes it very difficult to compete for a title. Being down 20 in game 5, the Clippers went on a 31-14 run to attempt to make a comeback, but fell short, 136-130, failing to force a game 6.

    Russell Westbrook was the clear leader of this team on both the offensive and defensive side of the ball. Westbrook showed that without two of his teammate superstars, he can step into a big role. Brodie averaged 23.6 points a night with 7.4 assists and 7.6 boards, on 41% from the field. In games 3, Westbrook a double-double with 30 points, 12 assists, and 8 rebounds. Where in game 4, he recorded 37 points and 6 rebounds. 

    Joined alongside Westbrook was Norman Powell. Powell played a huge role in this series, averaging 21.8 points 47.4% from the field. in game 3, Powell accounted for 42 points on 65% shooting from the field. Powell brought a great threat to the defensive side of the ball, as he and Westbrook helped keep the Suns away from the sweep. 

    The Suns and Clippers series was not as exciting as many expected, but nonetheless, the superstars showed out. Despite Kawhi and PG13, Westbrook was a lead catalyst in helping the Clippers get to a game 5. The Suns are now off to face a deep Nuggets team and will need all the help they can get, so Durant and Booker can flourish. 



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