(Photo by Cliff Hawkins/Getty Images for The Match)
Arguably the most intriguing series in the first round of the 2023 NBA Playoffs is the matchup between the Los Angeles Clippers and Phoenix Suns.
The Clippers are considered underdogs in the matchup, but they are certainly expected to make things interesting, and Charles Barkley thinks they’re going to do more than just that.
The Hall of Famer believes the Clippers are going to upset the Suns and advance to the second round of the postseason.
Charles Barkley just picked the Clippers over the Suns in the first round
— Lucas (@LucasJHann) April 15, 2023
It’s certainly a bold pick, but he’s not the only person who thinks L.A. has what it takes to get the job done.
In fact, Barkley and Kenny Smith are on the exact same page.
Kenny Smith also picked the Clippers.
Shaq and Ernie picked the Suns.
— Lucas (@LucasJHann) April 15, 2023
With Paul George sidelined, the Clippers are going to need players like Kawhi Leonard and Russell Westbrook to carry a lot of weight in order for the team to shock the Suns.
George’s production is going to be hard to replace, as he averaged 23.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game in the regular season.
But Westbrook has shown flashes of his vintage self since joining the Clippers, which is one reason why the series looks so interesting on paper.
Moreover, Leonard’s playoff track record speaks for itself, and if he rises to the occasion in the first round like he often does in big games, then the Clippers can’t be counted out.
The series will get underway on Sunday in Phoenix.
Kevin Durant and the star-studded Suns will look to take a 1-0 series lead and install some doubt in those who are picking the Clippers.
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