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The Western Conference of the NBA is packed with high-quality teams, but perhaps none have been more surprising this season than the Phoenix Suns and the Los Angeles Lakers. Both teams have exceeded expectations and are firmly in the playoff hunt. When these two teams meet, it is sure to be a thrilling matchup between two of the best teams in the conference.
10 APRIL 2023
TIME: 03:30 PM ET
In this post, we will break down the strengths and weaknesses of both teams and predict how this game will play out. The Phoenix Suns have been one of the most surprising teams in the league this season, boasting a 40-16 record and the second-best record in the West. Led by their dynamic backcourt of Devin Booker and Chris Paul, the Suns have been an elite offensive team, ranking in the top five in offensive efficiency.
Their defense has been solid as well, ranking in the top ten in defensive efficiency.
On the other hand, the Los Angeles Lakers have had an up-and-down season, dealing with injuries to key players such as LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Despite the setbacks, they have managed to stay in the playoff hunt, and with both James and Davis back in the lineup, they will be looking to make a push for the championship. The Lakers have been a solid defensive team, but their offense has struggled at times, ranking in the middle of the pack in offensive efficiency.
When these two teams meet, it will be a battle of contrasting styles. The Suns will look to push the pace and rely on their perimeter shooting to score points, while the Lakers will look to slow the game down and play through their dominant big men in the post.
One key matchup to watch will be the battle between Booker and the Lakers’ backcourt. Booker has been one of the best guards in the league this season, averaging over 25 points and 4 assists per game. He will be a handful for the Lakers’ guards, who will need to use their size and physicality to slow him down.
On the other side of the ball, the Suns will need to find a way to contain James and Davis.
James has been his usual dominant self this season, averaging nearly 26 points, 8 rebounds, and 8 assists per game. Davis has been hampered by injuries but is still a matchup nightmare when healthy. Phoenix will need to throw a variety of defenders at them, including Deandre Ayton, Mikal Bridges, and Jae Crowder.
