PREVIEW: Western Conference Playoffs Game 1

Western Conference showdown: Suns vs Clippers in Game One of 2023 Playoffs promises to be an epic clash

The Western Conference playoffs are underway, and basketball fans are in for a treat with two highly anticipated matchups in Game One. The first game features the Phoenix Suns and the Los Angeles Clippers, while the second game sees the Golden State Warriors facing off against the Sacramento Kings. Both contests promise to showcase the best of what the Western Conference has to offer, with elite talent, intense competition, and thrilling moments that will keep fans on the edge of their seats. As the playoff picture begins to take shape, these games are sure to set the tone for what promises to be a memorable postseason.

Suns vs Clippers

The Kevin Durant and Devin Booker led the Suns had a rough start to the season. After ending last season with over 60 wins and top of the western conference, many people expected the team to come back as the dominant side that they are. Instead, load management, injuries and arguments within the organization set the roster back for the better half of the season. Currently 4th in the west, the Suns are clearly a dangerous side to face, no matter who you are.

A big switch in the Suns' rotation was the addition of Kevin Durant for Cam JOhnson and Mikal Bridges in the February trade deadline. So far KD has not played many games due to recovering from injury, and spraining his ankle before a Suns game while warming up. Although Durant has not been able to showcase that much for the Arizona team, he managed to score over 20 points in each of the times he suited up in purple and orange.

But the Suns are about KD as many fans are turning their heads towards Devin Booker, the 26 year old who once scored 70 points at the young age of just 20. This season he is averaging 27.8 ppg, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game . Of course, this team is also filled with players around their stars, like DeAndre Ayton at the 5, Chris Paul leading the offense, and many other role players.

On the Clippers side it's looking a bit hectic. The Clips lost Paul George due to injury, who will have to sit game 1 of the first round. PG13 was the leading scorer in the regular season for the team, followed by Kawhi who missed a considerable amount of games, but is healthy and ready to face the mighty Suns. Additionally, the Clippers signed Westbrook after the trade deadline and his presence has been FELT.

Head-2-Head

Having lost the first two games of the season to the Suns, the Russell Westbrook trade must have had an effect on the team's success. Since the trade deadline, the Clippers have managed to win more and more games. When facing the Suns the next 2 times since then, the Clippers came out victorious, which should give an idea of the upcoming matchup.

Tips and Predictions

Result - Phoenix Suns to win
Total pints over 220.5 - YES
Odds: 2.00

Kings vs Warriors

The Warriors came into this regular season as the crown champs after beating the Celtics in 6 games. After a disappointing start to the season, the Warriors couldn't seem to find wins on the road, but still managed to dominate at home. The Kings on the other hand, managed to secure the 3rd seed in the west. The De'Aaron Fox (clutch players leader) and Domantas Sabonis (rebound champion) led team have been powerhouse in the west. With the rest of the team complementing the star players, Kevin Huerter, Harrison Barnes and rookie Keegan Murray were pivotal in the Kings' success this season.

The Warriors of course led by Steph Curry, Draymond Green and Klay Thompson, with Jordan Pool coming off the bench, the Warriors are still as scary as they ever were. Andre Wiggins set himself apart as a two way player who can defend at the rim and on the perimeter.

The much anticipated matchup is not only because of the clash between the star players, but because of the clash between the two all star coaches. Steve Kerr, head coach of the GS Warriors, once shared his position with Mike Brown, who came successful in 2017, 2018 and of course, 2022. The Kings acquired Brown in the postseason, and for a good reason. After switching things up a bit, Brown managed to lead the Kings to the playoffs after a 16 year drought.

Head-2-Head

Although the Kings are the superior side on paper, they still managed to lose 3 out of 4 games vs the Warriors this season. There is no doubt Sacramento is an elite team, but the Warriors are just so talented and organized that even top flight teams will eventually fumble. The 1-3 record vs the Warriors doesn't tell the whole story, but it allows us, the fans, to get an idea of what to expect tonight.

Tips and Predictions

Result - Kings to win
Total points over 231.5 - YES
Odds: 2.70