Heading into Game 3 with a potential 3-0 series lead hanging in the balance, the Suns will be getting one of their most valuable players back.
After sitting out of Games 1 and 2 due to NBA Health and Safety Protocols, 11-time All-Star Chris Paul will make his return on Thursday night per the team. Phoenix has been able to defeat the Clippers in each of its first two games.
The timing of Paul’s return couldn’t be much better for the Suns. The “Point God” is known for his ability to control the pacing of a game and take care of the basketball. Fellow All-Star guard Devin Booker struggled in Game 2, so getting his running mate back should help quite a bit.
Los Angeles will, once again, be without superstar forward Kawhi Leonard. Without one of the league’s best two-way players, Paul George has been tasked with shouldering the load for the Clippers. That’s much easier said than done against a formidable playoff opponent such as the Suns.
More Suns Notes
- The Suns were at the forefront of countless jokes over the past few years for selecting big man Deandre Ayton instead of Mavs sensation Luka Doncic in 2018. With Phoenix’s deep playoff run taking place in front of national audiences every game, those tides are beginning to turn. Perhaps Ayton’s versatile skillset, defensive prowess, fit with the team and overall likability make him the right pick after all. ESPN’s Royce Young elaborates.
- Despite the recent recognition, Ayton still has a chip on his shoulder. He expressed that in a recent article by The Undefeated’s Marc J. Spears. “I still think they doubt me. I still think they don’t believe yet…” Ayton said. “But if I can win this whole thing, that is where I can get my reputation. That is where I can be a star.” He also emphasized how focused he is on winning a championship by saying, “I’m trying to bring that ‘Larry’ back to the Bahamas. I’m trying.”
- ICYMI: GM James Jones has won the NBA’s Executive of the Year award. Jones received nine of 30 possible first-place votes and totaled 65 points to win. The NBA’s official release breaks down the full voting results with some additional context.
