- 2022 NBA Playoffs
- Pelicans vs Suns
For the second season in a row, one of the Phoenix Suns' stars players have gone down with an injury. Last postseason it was Chris Paul (hand) this postseason Devin Booker went down vs the New Orleans Pelicans in game two of the third quarter.
Booker will not be able to play in games three or four in New Orleans. The Pelicans went on to steal game two 125-114. Putting the Phoenix Suns in a tuff spot.
With the series tied 1-1, the Suns must travel to New Orleans and try to steal one on the road without their starting guard. On top of that, the Pelicans showed in the second half they can stick with the Suns.
Brandon Ingram rose to the occasion in his first playoffs appearance. Fishing with 37 points, 11 rebounds, and 9 assists in game two. Ingram carried the and closed out the game for the Pelicans. While the Suns stood without their closer in Devin Booker.
He was not the lone star CJ McCollum's had 23 points Jonas Valanciunas finished with 10 points, 13 rebounds, and Herbert Jones's scored 14 points, they all deserve a lot of credit. Head coach Willie Green has done a great job game-planning against his former team the Phoenix Suns. Games three and four are must-win games for the Suns. They can not afford to go back home down 3-1.
The Phoenix Suns had a record of 8-6 without Booker this season.Phoenix is a 1.5- point favorite vs the Pelicans in game three.
Keys to Suns overcoming the Pelicans.
Slow Down Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum.
(Expect defensive player of the year candidates Mikal Bridges to pick up Ingram)
Control the tempo of the game.
(CP3 will need to control the offense) Paul is 7-5 with the Suns without Devin Booker in his career.)
Attack the Glass
(Ayton & McGee)
The Sun's defense will be the key to them stealing a game in New Orleans.
(Defensive Adjustments)