Phoenix Suns swingman Mikal Bridges needs to slow down Paul George as best he can
George certainly heard the noise during the offseason, regular season, and even to start these playoffs, with many mocking him for his frequent ugly performances during important moments. Responding well though over LA’s last four contests, Paul scored 31 points twice, then 37, and 28 to finish off the Jazz even while missing Leonard for the last two games.
His increased efficiency from deep remains his most influential improvement though, formerly shooting 31.7 percent from the beyond the arc, but shooting 44.1 percent during his last four games. Having seemingly found his touch, if Mikal Bridges can bother him even a bit, it might help the Suns by substantial means as the series progresses.
Luckily for Phoenix, Bridges stands well-equipped with lateral quickness and a broad wingspan, making him an already well-renowned wing defender. When he locks in, the Suns rarely lose, as he even slowed down LeBron James from time to time during Phoenix’s closeout victory against the Lakers, limiting him to an 11-26 performance. He too staved off the incredibly talented Michael Porter Jr. during he following series as well.
No Mikal Bridges on All Defense. He got the most votes of anyone that didn’t make it. Kawhi Leonard had 4 more points than him.
— Kellan Olson (@KellanOlson) June 14, 2021
But as additional proof more specific to the Clippers, Bridges guarded George often during Phoenix’s most recent bout with LA during the regular season’s second to last week. He held George to a 9-21 shooting performance, going an ugly 3-9 from deep as well. The game ended with Phoenix securing a 109-101 victory.
With this evidence, the Suns must do their best to replicate that result. The first step in accomplishing that though lies within Bridges’ hands.