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Feature

Extra Pass: Pelicans hoping to upset league-leading Suns

Published March 15, 2022, 4:00 PMJon Carlos Rodriguez
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The Suns-Pelicans game tips off at 8:00 AM on NBA TV Philippines, available on Smart’s Giga Play and Cignal TV.

What’s up with the Phoenix Suns?

Don’t talk to the Phoenix Suns about “ifs.” The Los Angeles Lakers learned about that in the worst way possible, specifically through a 29-point beatdown in their recent matchup. Anthony Davis was asked if his groin injury was the main reason the Suns advanced in last year’s playoffs and he replied, “It was. We know that. They know that. They got away with one.” 

Devin Booker, naturally, didn’t like it. He responded in the most DBook way–by dropping 30 points on the Lakers. 

What’s up with the New Orleans Pelicans?

The New Orleans Pelicans were in a bit of a roll there, winning four straight games with their new offensive weapon in CJ McCollum. But then they lost four straight, which was surprising, considering the positives they’ve shown, and later on lost McCollum to health and safety protocols.

McCollum is still questionable for the game against the Suns. Currently, the Pelicans are still hanging on to the 10th spot in the West, the last position in the play-in tournament. What that means for them is that every game is now a must-win, more than ever. A losing streak now means it’s bye-bye playoffs. 

Storyline to watch out for

If all things work in their favor, the Pelicans may find themselves in a seven-game series versus the Suns in the first round of the playoffs. That’s something that should be on their minds when they face the Suns. 

Predictions

If the Phoenix Suns come into this matchup with the same fire as their previous game, then the New Orleans Pelicans should prepare for the hurt. Blame Anthony Davis.