LA Lakers vs Phoenix Suns Date and Time: Wednesday, June 2,2021 7:30 AM IST Venue: Phoenix Suns Arena, Phoenix Prediction: Phoenix Suns Bookmaker: 1xbet
2021 NBA Playoffs action will return to the Phoenix Suns Arena, when the LA Lakers take on the Phoenix Suns in Game 5 of their first round Western Conference matchup.
The series is tied at 2-2 after Chris Paul and co. stole Game 4 at the Staples Center, beating the LA Lakers 100-92. Paul shrugged off a shoulder issue that has been nagging him since Game 1, while the LA Lakers struggled without Anthony Davis for the second half of the season.
The LA Lakers’ offense was poor in Game 4, as the reigning champions struggled on the offensive side of the ball, except for LeBron James. Dennis Schroder was especially underwhelming, as the German international managed just eight points in 32 minutes.
The Phoenix Suns won Game 4 as a result of a team effort. As many as six Phoenix Suns players registered double-digit point tallies. DeAndre Ayton especially capitalized on Anthony Davis’ absence, putting up a solid stat line of 14 points, 17 rebounds, a block and two steals.
The Suns were also impressive in defense, tallying 12 steals compared to the Lakers’ three. Their ball movement was on point as well, with the Phoenix Suns ending the game with 24 assists.
Monty Williams has been equal to Frank Vogel, if not better, in terms of coaching so far. So he will look to take the lead in the series on Tuesday when the LA Lakers visit Phoenix.
The outcome of this game would depend on whether Anthony Davis starts for the LA Lakers or not. He was the difference-maker in games 2 and 3, both of which the Lakers won. There is a likelihood of him not starting Game 5, which makes the Phoenix Suns the favorites.
