The story behind the Phoenix Suns series-opening loss to the LA Clippers

By Aaron Coe | Apr 16, 2023

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 16: Devin Booker #1 and Kevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns talk during the second half Game One of the Western Conference First Round Playoffs at Footprint Center on April 16, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Clippers defeated the Suns 115-110. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

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PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 16: Devin Booker #1 and Kevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

Stars show up for Suns in a strong second quarter

After being outscored by a dozen to start the game, Phoenix was better in the second quarter, cutting into the lead before the half. The biggest difference between the first and second quarter was that some of the shots that were not falling for Phoenix were finally going through the hoop. This was especially true for Kevin Durant.

Like any smart scorer, after a poor first quarter, KD got to the free throw line to see the ball go through the hoop. Following those free throws, a little pump fake and a layup woke the slim reaper up. After going 0-for in the first quarter, our superstar poured in 17 second quarter points. Not to be outdone, DBook, had 10 second quarter points to enter the half with 16.

Unfortunately, the rest of the Phoenix team was struggling combining for only nine points in the second quarter and 22 in the half, with Torrey Craig, a somewhat surprise starter, and Ayton each scoring eight. Fortunately, the strong quarter from our top two put Phoenix in a position to make a game of things in the second half.

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