The Phoenix Suns protected home court and tied the series 2-2 thanks to a remarkable performance from star guard Devin Booker and superstar Kevin Durant. Stealing a game on the road is what it will take to win this series. So far, the home team appears to be the favorite to win. If this trend continues, we’re looking at game seven in Denver.
They combined for 72 points, leading the Suns to a 129-124 victory. Booker and Durant have been instrumental to the Phoenix Suns’ success throughout this series, and their performance in game four was no different. Nikola Jokic finished with 53 points and 11 assists and continues to be a key contributor to his team. It will be an intense matchup with the right to advance to the Western Conference Finals on the line.
Can the Phoenix Suns Steal a Game in Denver?
Phoenix Suns vs. Nuggets Game Five Preview
The Phoenix Suns and the Denver Nuggets are preparing for a dogfight in game five, with the series tied at 2-2. The Phoenix Suns have won the last two games, but Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets have home-court advantage Tuesday, and the odds are in their favor. Both teams have been evenly matched throughout the series, and the outcome of Game Five could determine the winner. It is expected to be a close game, and both teams are motivated to win.
Booker and Durant were key to the Phoenix Suns’ comeback in this series. Their performances could make all the difference on the court. In both wins, the duo rose to the occasion to guide the Phoenix Suns to victory. Booker’s clutch shooting and Durant’s impressive offense were game-changers in this series. It is clear that these two superstars are the driving force behind the Phoenix Suns’ success if they wish to win this series.
“We know what the problem is,” Nikola Jokic said. “We know who we need to stop. But they are talented players—they are the two best scorers, probably, in the league right now who can create a shot. We can send a double-team, and they can still go and make tough shots.”
Devin Booker averages 30.8 points per game versus the Nuggets in the playoffs. Kevin Durant averages 32.2 points per game against the Nuggets in playoffs.
The Joker
As it goes for the Nuggets, Nikola Jokic is the main reason they are still in this series. He has averaged 30.8 points, 10.6 assists, and 8.8 rebounds per game in the series. Jokic is a crucial player to watch, as his performance could make or break the Nuggets’ chances.
One thing the Nuggets have on their side is their bench which has outplayed the Phoenix Suns’ bench this entire series. The Phoenix Suns relied heavily on Chris Paul, now sidelined with a groin strain. Now star guard Devin Booker looks to carry the load, while the Nuggets have responded with more teamwork and ball movement. If Denver can continue to have balanced contributions from their players, they have a reasonable chance of taking the series.
“Yes, we can get some other guys involved and that’s going to help us a lot,” Jokic said. “If you remember the first game, Bruce had 15 or 20 points, Mike scored a lot of points, the whole bench, actually, played really well, right? That helps a lot. But it’s not all on them.”
Although nothing is for sure, this series could easily go seven games. This is a hard-fought battle, and it will come down to who makes the most of their opportunities. Both teams have an excellent chance of winning, but it depends on who wants it more. It’s a battle of wills now. Despite his late-game interaction with the Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia, Jokic avoided a Game Five suspension but received a $25,000 fine for his actions. The NBA issued a statement saying that Jokic’s conduct during the game was detrimental to the NBA and basketball. Jokic apologized for his behavior and stated that
“He told me I elbowed the fan, but the fan put their hand on me first. I thought the league protected us… He’s influencing the game. I think he’s supposed to get kicked out.“
The Phoenix Suns and Denver Nuggets will now face off in a crucial Game Five on Tuesday. Both teams will be looking to gain the advantage and will be going all-out to move one step closer to the NBA Western Conference Finals.
