Can the Suns' shooting overcome OKC's elite perimeter defense ? Key matchups decide this electrifying Game 1 showdown.
Game 1 between the Thunder and Suns is set for 2:30 p.m. Central on ABC.
Oklahoma City won 20 of the past 21 games that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander played, so the reigning champs enter the playoffs on a roll. They are also well-rested and healthy.
It's easy to look ahead to upcoming rounds, but the team needs to take care of business first against a physical Suns squad that will not be scared of the moment.
Check out three key matchups for the Thunder’s opening playoff game.
Jalen Green vs. Thunder’s Perimeter Defense
Jalen Green totaled 71 points on 68.7% true shooting across Phoenix’s two play-in tournament games, so the former Rocket is peaking at the right moment. His ability to be a high-volume scorer on self-created looks significantly elevates the Suns’ offense and alleviates some of the burden from Devin Booker’s shoulders.
But Oklahoma City’s defense is a very tough matchup for Jalen Green because Luguentz Dort, Cason Wallace and Alex Caruso are three of the best perimeter defenders across the NBA. Green is also a shaky three-point shooter, and the Thunder thrives at taking away paint attempts.
Since the start of last season, the reigning champs have held Green to 17.4 points per game on an abysmal 52.4% true shooting across five matchups. It may be a sweep or gentleman's sweep if this trend holds.
Turnovers
The Thunder and Suns both ranked top three this season in opponent turnover rate. They apply a ton of defensive pressure and haunt passing lanes.
However, Oklahoma City’s offense committed the lowest turnover rate across the NBA, while Phoenix was 19th. Can the Suns shrink this gap by emphasizing ball security and safe passes? If not, then the champs already have a head start thanks to points off turnovers.
Booker has averaged four turnovers per game against the Thunder over the past two seasons, so he’s under the spotlight.
Suns’ Three-Point Shooting
Phoenix finished the season ranked 7th in three-point attempt rate and 12th in three-point percentage, so its offense is capable of raining triples. This is important because Oklahoma City’s defense surrenders a ton of catch-and-shoot three pointers in order to take away paint attempts and star scorers.
Grayson Allen, Collin Gillespie, Royce O’Neale and Jordan Goodwin knocking down perimeter shots is an absolute must for the Suns. Otherwise, it’s unlikely that Phoenix’s offense can keep pace with Gilgeous-Alexander and company.