LA Lakers vs Phoenix Suns Date and Time: Wednesday, May 26,2021 7:30 AM IST Venue: Phoenix Suns Arena, Phoenix, AZ Prediction: LA Lakers Bookmaker: 1xbet
The LA Lakers are looking to avenge Sunday’s 99-90 loss to the Phoenix Suns when they meet for Game 2 of their first-round series at Phoenix Suns Arena. Game 1 of the NBA Playoffs series between the No. 2-seeded Suns against the No. 7-seeded Lakers was surprisingly one-sided for most of the game, with the former leading by as many as 16 points in the fourth quarter.
If not for a late run by the LA Lakers, the final score would have ended with the Phoenix Suns winning by double-digits. Devin Booker led all scorers with 34 points while also contributing seven rebounds and eight assists. Deandre Ayton added 21 points and a monstrous 16 rebounds against the Purple and Gold’s massive frontline.
The defense by the LA Lakers was good enough to hold down the Phoenix Suns to just 99 points on 46.5 percent shooting from the field and 9-of-28 from 3-point range on Sunday. The Suns were second in the NBA during the regular season in field-goal percentage at 49.0 percent and seventh in the league in 3-point percentage at 37.8.
Clearly, the LA Lakers did some things right in Game 1. If their offense can keep up with their defense, Game 2 should have a vastly different outcome. A 90-point output is an aberration considering the firepower in this squad, but credit the Phoenix Suns defense as well for limiting them to just 33 field goals made after the Lakers averaged 40.6 during the regular season.
The Phoenix Suns had an impressive first playoff game in 11 years. First-time postseason participants Devin Booker and Deandre Ayton played like seasoned veterans against an LA Lakers squad that was oozing with playoff experience.
The Phoenix also outhustled the LA Lakers, getting the advantage in rebounding 47-33. If they can sustain the effort and energy for Game
The LA Lakers will make the adjustments necessary to avoid falling to an 0-2 hole in the first-round of the playoffs. Davis won’t be as passive for the second straight game and the same goes for James. Expect the Lakers’ stars to show up on their match.
As for the Phoenix Suns, they should continue to press their advantage in the backcourt with Paul and Booker while checking to see if Ayton will have his way against the LA Lakers’ big men again.
Game 2 should be more tightly contested with the LA Lakers defeating the Phoenix Suns. Davis will be smarter and play inside when facing smaller defenders. This should be the advantage that puts the Lakers on top.
