Painful commentary of Jones, but Van Gundy helps. The Suns reward for finishing with the 2nd best record in the league is to face the defending champs. LeBron with early back to back 3's, Ayton and Booker with it going for the Suns. Paul gets injured and plays through it, Suns up 10 at the half. Ayton has excellent mobility and touch around the rim. LeBron and AD not very aggressive here, down pretty big going into the 4th. Paul using his off hand and losing the ball a lot, but still only registers the 1 turnover for the game. Booker and Ayton with standout 1st time playoff performances, Suns pretty much leading from start to finish, to take a 1-0 lead in the series. The Suns +14 on the boards, despite Drummond grabbing 7 offensive rebounds. Ayton 10 of 11 from the field, with 16 boards, 8 offensive. Booker with a game high 34 points, while taking on more responsibility with Paul's injury. LeBron 18 points, 7 boards, 10 assists, 3 steals.
3. (Phx) D. Ayton, 2. (Phx) D. Booker, 1. (Lal) L. James.
3. (Phx) D. Ayton, 2. (Phx) D. Booker, 1. (Lal) L. James.