Phoenix Suns: Three Storylines to Watch vs Clippers

What to expect from the Suns against the Clippers in the first round of the playoffs.

In what feels like an almost yearly tradition, the #4 Phoenix Suns and #5 Los Angeles Clippers will meet in the playoffs once again after the 2021 NBA Western Conference Finals. 

Both the Suns and Clippers had similar peaks and valleys throughout the 2022-23 season. Here are three key elements to look for tonight and the rest of the series:

1. No Playoff P

Clippers fans are learning there is something worse than the “Playoff P” moniker, no Paul George at all. George’s 2022 season has been his best in LA but will be out with a knee injury. For a team like the Clippers losing their co-scoring leader will be monumental as they finished sixth in ISO ball play during the 2022-23 regular season. 

2. Damion Lee’s Moment

Damion Lee has been a boost of energy off the bench for the Phoenix Suns all season. He finished third in the NBA in 3-point shooting percentage, and against a team like the Clippers who struggle with perimeter defense, his success off the bench will dictate what type of postseason it will be for the Phoenix Suns.

3. Devin Booker’s March Madness Continues

March saw Devin Booker average 32.1 points-per-game on 55/40/80 shooting. He was the highest scoring player from the Western Conference going into the playoffs and has really begun to become the superstar valley fans have known for years. Kevin Durant’s arrival into town has taken some eyes off of Booker and that appears to be for the best. 

The Suns and Clippers begin tonight with tip-off time scheduled for 5 PM.