We have the first 2nd round matchup, and it comes out of the west. The Denver Nuggets will host the Phoenix Suns for a chance to advance to the Western Conference Finals. Denver finished off the Minnesota Timberwolves in 5 games. It also took 5 games for the Phoenix Suns to eliminate the Los Angeles Clippers. The Nuggets were the #1 team in the Western Conference this season. Denver entered the playoffs on a downslide and dealt with injuries also. During their first round series against Minnesota, the Nuggets looked like the team we saw most of the season. Can they continue that play against a much tougher opponent? Phoenix came into these playoffs as the favorite by many to represent the West in the NBA Finals. Devin Booker has arguably been the best player in the playoffs. Who will advance to the Western Conference Finals?
We all know about the greatness of Nikola Jokic. He’s the reigning 2-time league MVP and one of the best players in the league. Denver has so much more on this team and they’re arguably the deepest team in the playoffs. Jokic gets all the attention and deservedly so, but Jamal Murray leads them in playoff points. Murray can go on scoring sprees just like Devin Booker. The Nuggets have six players averaging double figures in these playoffs. Aaron Gordon and Michael Porter Jr. will most likely take turns trying to slow down Kevin Durant. They will throw different players at Devin Booker, but will either of them work? Jokic is viewed as somewhat of a defensive liability, but he will have to step it up also. With Denver having the homecourt advantage, will they use this in their favor to advance Phoenix?
As mentioned, many people have had this Phoenix Suns team in the NBA Finals this season. After making that blockbuster trade for Kevin Durant, this team became the favorite. Devin Booker played out of his mind in their first round series against the Clippers. Booker averaged over 37 points a game while playing over 43 minutes a game. Kevin Durant added 28 points a game while playing almost 44 minutes per game. Deandre Ayton averaged 16 a game and could play a huge role in this team advancing. Torrey Craig has been amazing thus far and his energy is key to this team. Chris Paul hit key shots and made big plays when needed in the first round. Will Booker continue his historic scoring against this Denver squad? Can the Suns upset the Nuggets and make their way to the Western Conference Finals?
Who Advances to West Finals between Denver and Phoenix?
The Nuggets have been the best team in the Western Conference this season. Phoenix is the team that many of the experts are picking. Chris Paul is still looking for that elusive championship ring. Phoenix still has that championship pedigree from them from their run in 2021. The Denver Nuggets have been on the cusp of getting close to the NBA Finals in that span. Injuries have derailed the Nuggets for the most part, but they are healthy heading into this series. Phoenix has two of the best scorers in the league and when they get going it’s hard to stop them. Will home court play a part in this series? Can Devin Booker remain hot in the 2nd round? Can DeAndre Ayton get Jokic in foul trouble? This should be a great series and think it could go seven games. I’m picking the Suns to win the series.
Phoenix Suns Win Series 4-3 to Advance to Western Conference Finals
