Phoenix Suns Top Five Playoff Performance: Deandre Ayton vs Lakers, Game 1
Ayton had a dream playoff debut scoring 21 points with only one miss from the field, even while locking down perhaps the league’s best power forward on the other end. Collectively, it helped Phoenix secure their first win against the defending champions, coming as a statement win for a two-seeded team feeling somewhat disrespected at the time.
On the offensive end, Ayton needed to contribute more than usual as all-star teammate Chris Paul was compromised by a shoulder injury. Ayton thrived with more responsibility though with his scoring outburst, even shooting 91 percent from the field.
Ayton too proved very impactful with his rebounding, as he grabbed eight offensive boards and 16 rebounds in total. He became just the second player in NBA postseason history to notch 20+ points, 15+ rebounds, and shoot above 90 percent from the field (Bill Russell).
Deandre Ayton is the 2nd player in postseason history to shoot 90% (or better) in a 20-point, 15-rebound game against the Lakers, joining Bill Russell, who did it in Game 2 of the 1965 NBA Finals h/t @EliasSports pic.twitter.com/T0CXG8LBQW
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) May 23, 2021
On the defensive end, Ayton guarded Anthony Davis for the majority of his field goal attempts. But despite Davis’s reputation and all-league skill set, Ayton refused to be intimidated.
When Ayton guarded Davis, he limited him to 2-9 from the field, and allowed a total of just four points. The former Arizona Wildcat collected a blocked shot during the affair as well.