The Phoenix Suns have won three of their recent four games in the absence of Chris Paul. Though the opponents they beat, like the Oklahoma City and Portland trail Blazers, are hardly playoff teams, the Suns lost to the Utah Jazz, which are fourth in the Western Conference, by only four points.
Paul, who has averaged 14.9 points and 10.7 assists this season, has been nothing but integral to the Suns. But on the other hand, he is 36 years old and always suffered injuries in the post-season. If the Suns can maintain their leading position and have a healthy Paul back right before the playoffs begin, it should be a great boost to the team's form and confidence in the NBA Championship competitions beginning in April.
Cameron Johnson (#23) of then Phoenix Suns reacts after beating the buzzer in the game against the New York Knicks at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona, U.S., March 4, 2022. /CFP
Mikal Bridges of the Phoenix Suns jumps ahead of the game against the Portland Trail Blazers at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona, U.S., March 2, 2022. /CFP
Host: Li Xiang
Guest: Matthew Watson
Cover designer: Feng Yuan
Chief editor: Chen Ran
Supervisor: Zhang Shilei