Phoenix Suns Key #3: Ayton taking advantage offensively vs small ball lineup
On the offensive end, Ayton can really punish the “small ball” Clippers lineup if he continues his offensive onslaught already displayed in the 2021 playoffs. As we saw in the Lakers series, Ayton can thrive with more offensive responsibility.
The Clippers present a different challenge though, as he will most likely be much taller than his primary matchup. However, the Clippers may double him in their switch heavy defensive scheme.
Ayton needs to be ready to make quick and smart decisions off doubles, such as passing out of double teams to an open shooter, or creating secondary opportunities for the team with pump fakes. Ayton’s position as a roll-man should make him as effective as ever too.
His offensive rebounding can be crucial as well against some smaller players, as he already ranks seventh in offensive rebounds per game at 2.7 for the playoffs. This creates extra possessions for the Suns, which surely will help them in the long run.