3 questions entering Suns-Lakers
Here are three questions entering Tuesday’s Suns-Lakers matchup scheduled for 8 p.m. on TNT.
Phoenix (10-6) is coming off an 116-95 win Sunday over New York while Los Angeles (5-10) topped San Antonio, 12392, in winning a third straight game.
Anthony Davis rebirth?
The Lakers big has been putting in work since LeBron James has missed the team’s last four games with a left adductor strain sustained Nov. 9 against the Clippers.
Davis has posted four straight double-doubles with the last three being monstrous. vs. Kings – 24 points, 14 rebounds. vs. Nets – 37 points, 18 rebounds. vs. Pistons – 38 points, 16 rebounds.
vs. Spurs – 30 points, 18 rebounds. At one time, Davis was considered a top 5 NBA player, but injuries have truly taken him out of that conversation. If he can stay healthy and keep playing like this, maybe James can pass the torch to him.
Why is Deandre Ayton more active?
After posting a second straight double-double in Sunday’s win, Ayton said his ankle is feeling better after he missed two games with a left ankle sprain.
Ayton probably returned sooner than expected, has had some subpar efforts, but he’s been more active on the glass as evidenced by him grabbing nine total offensive rebounds in his last two games.
He’s running the floor better and actually getting to the free throw line. After going three straight games without a FTA, Ayton has eight total in his last two games.
If Ayton and Davis both bring their ‘A’ game, oh, it’s on.
Who wins?
Chris Paul (heel) and Landry Shamet (concussion protocols) remain out, but Cameron Payne has been balling.
In his six starts, Payne is averaging 20.2 points on 45.7% shooting, hitting 45.5% of his 3s, and 6.3 assists to 2.2 turnovers.
The Lakers sound as if they’re being cautious with James.
Either way, Los Angeles is 0-5 on the road. They’re due for a victory away from L.A.
Just not Tuesday night before what will be a sellout crowd of 17,071 at Footprint Center.
Have opinion about current state of the Suns? Reach Suns Insider Duane Rankin at dmrankin@gannett.com or contact him at 480-787-1240. Follow him on Twitter at @DuaneRankin.
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