3 Phoenix Suns Observations From Game One vs New Orleans Pelicans

Phoenix Suns Observation #1: Pelicans have No Answer for Chris Paul

Phoenix Suns point guard Chris Paul showed that age is only a number against his former team from the bayou. Most knew Paul for his quickness and electrifying handles while with the Pelicans a few years back. But as his legendary career progressed, he transitioned into a perfectionist who methodically dismantles his opponents off the pick-and-roll.

However, we saw vintage Chris Paul last night. CP3 left opponents in the dust as if he were playing in New Orleans earlier in his career. His old team learned the hard way that he still wields that game-breaking quickness which initially made him a hot commodity.

At one point, he even put Herb Jones and Jose Alvarado—two rookies known for their tenacious on-ball defense—in a spin cycle. On another, he barrelled down court and faked both those guys out en route to the rim. That quickness in transition should terrify future playoff opponents, which Paul somewhat lacked last year due to his shoulder injury.

But Paul’s stat line should bring forth a real jump scare. The Point God finished with 30 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists. It is safe to say Paul badly wants this championship, and the Suns will remain heavy favorites to win it as long as Paul stays in peak form.