NBA
Deandre Ayton’s Interior Defense is Key for a Deep Phoenix Run
Deandre Ayton made his playoff debut by shutting down Anthony Davis, showing his interior defense is key for a deep Phoenix run
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In one of the most anticipated first round matchups, Phoenix defeated the LA Lakers during a defensive Game 1 battle. One of the keys to the Suns’ victory was the efforts of Deandre Ayton on both ends of the floor. He paired 21 points with 16 boards, and shut down Anthony Davis on top of the double-double. AD shot 5-16 from the field and scored only 13 points, struggling to get going with Ayton’s ferocious defense. Devin Booker added 34 points, and linked up with his big man on multiple occasions.
AYTON’S INTERIOR DEFENSE IS KEY FOR A DEEP PHOENIX RUN
COLORS KEY | FULL SUNS OUTLOOK
The former first overall pick showed why he was regarded so highly in his first playoff game on Sunday. He dominated the glass, as his 16 rebounds were seven more than the Lakers leader in that category. Additionally, the Arizona alum was tasked with defending All-Star Anthony Davis but had no problem with the assignment. AD shot nearly 50% on the season but was only 31% from the field in a matchup with Ayton. Phoenix’s future All-Star’s ability to guard the league’s best big men significantly helps the Suns chances for a deep run in the postseason.
BIG Game 1 for @DeandreAyton.
☀️ 21 PTS
☀️ 16 REB
☀️ 10-11 FGM@Suns seek 2-0 series lead Tuesday at 10pm/et on TNT. #NBAPlayoffs pic.twitter.com/y7teCKKr5C— NBA (@NBA) May 23, 2021
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