The Phoenix Suns outshined LeBron James, Anthony Davis and the Los Angeles Lakers in the opener of their Round 1 playoff series, thanks in large part to Devin Booker and Deandre Ayton.
Booker and Ayton recorded a brilliant start to what should be many more playoff games, as even LeBron and Davis were unable to do anything against them.
Booker, for his part, bagged 34 points to lead the Suns to a 99-90 victory. It also set a new franchise record for most points in a playoff debut, erasing any worry that he might struggle in his first taste of playoff action.
Devin Booker has set the new franchise record for most points in a Suns player debut 🙌 pic.twitter.com/CQl3dmZn1k
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPointsApp) May 23, 2021
On the other hand, Ayton absolutely dominated Davis in their matchup. While AD arguably had the worst game of his playoff career, the Suns center was the complete opposite with a massive double-double of 21 pints and 16 boards. He also did so on 91 percent shooting from the field, making him the first player in Phoenix history to have a 20-15 playoff game on at least 90 percent shooting.
Deandre Ayton playoff debut:
21 PTS
16 REB
10-11 FGHe is the first Suns player in franchise history with a 20/15 playoff game on 90% shooting. pic.twitter.com/7XhDcQHIsV
— StatMuse (@statmuse) May 23, 2021
LeBron James had 18 points, seven rebounds and 10 assists for the Lakers. However, it was clearly not enough to counter Devin Booker's production. Meanwhile, Anthony Davis finished with just 13 points and seven rebounds. Deandre Ayton had more offensive rebounds than AD's total board count!
Deandre Ayton had more offensive rebounds (8) than Anthony Davis had rebounds (7). pic.twitter.com/uSwgwawNGG
— StatMuse (@statmuse) May 23, 2021
The Suns certainly couldn't wish for a better start than this, and they will hope this performance will give them more confidence as they try to win their first-round series against the Lakers.
Of course it won't be easy. However, the Suns are the second-seeded team in the West for a reason.