Los Angeles Lakers vs. Phoenix Suns: X-factors, key matchups, prediction
By Liam Clark
Los Angeles Lakers vs. Phoenix Suns: Prediction
This series is sure to be up there in the closest and most exciting playoff series from the first round. The Lakers are one of the best 7th-seeded teams in recent history, with the reigning champions likely to still be favored to take out the series win.
However, the Suns should not be underestimated. This Phoenix squad earned the 2nd seed by being one of the best teams in the NBA. Featuring a team consisting of star talent and a bench filled with depth. These two teams will likely have a series featuring a number of close games and star-studded performances, with scorers such as LeBron James and Devin Booker likely to have a number of massive games to try and help lead their teams over the line.
Overall though, despite both teams playing an incredibly efficient game both on the offensive and defensive side of the floor, this series will likely come down to experience in the high-pressure stage of the playoffs. In that sense, it would seem like the best bet would be the Lakers to take out the series.
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Both teams are pretty well matched on paper, and it would not be surprising to see Phoenix topple the champions, however, the Lakers should just narrowly take the series that will go the distance in a seven-game thriller.
Prediction: Lakers defeat Phoenix (4-3)