Stadium: Phoenix Suns Arena.
Game 5. The score in the series is 2-2.
Phoenix were lucky. Not only did the Suns’ medical staff manage to recover Chris Paul, but once again one of their leaders, Anthony Davis, who had failed in the previous game to reach the second half, snapped. As a result, the Suns regained the home-court advantage and now will try to extend their lead in game 5 in Arizona. But it’s unlikely that LeBron James will go along with that.
Phoenix are back
In Game 4, Chris Paul played almost 32 minutes, scoring 18 points and dishing out 9 assists. Of course, a leader’s decent shape is a big factor for Phoenix. Even without Anthony Davis, the Lakers would have had a much tougher time than in Games 2 and 3. Paul helped the team’s attack with his shots, but he also distributed the shots in such a way that Devin Booker was not the only threat. Booker only had 17 points; but Crowder had 17, Ayton - 14, Sean Penn - 13, Mikal Bridges - 11. 100-92, a brilliant win for the Suns, putting Monty Williams’ team back in the battle for the second round.
The Lakers face a challenge again
Poor preparation for the season and the play-offs continues to affect Frank Vogelэs team. As of last seasonэs finalist, the Lakers got the most limited offseason, along with Miami, so the incessant injuries aren’t surprising at all.
Anthony Davis, who was excellent in Game 2 and 3 of the series, managed to play only 19 minutes in Game 4. Naturally, it was extremely difficult for the Lakers to rebuild as the game progressed. The combination of Marc Gasol and LeBron James worked well, scoring 25 and 12 points respectively, but Vogel was unable to find any other offensive options.
Expert Betting Tips
If Chris Paul’s health problems are a sentence for Phoenix, then Anthony Davis’ injury for the Lakers is not. Even if the big man can’t take part in the upcoming game, the Lakers will have a chance to win. First, the Lakers have a top-notch defence that even Chris Paul can cause problems. Second, Frank Vogel has a huge rotation, which means unusual solutions and options that can give efficiency are possible. Third, it’s LeBron James, a basketball phenomenon that doesn’t fit any laws or framework. We think that even without Anthony Davis, the Lakers could easily handle Phoenix on their territory. And if Davis does play, the Suns simply don’t stand a chance.
Betting options:
- Lakers to win with a handicap (+5.5) with odds of about 1.82;
- Lakers to win for 2.82;
- Phoenix’s Individual Total Under 106.5 for about 1.88.