NBA: New Orleans Pelicans vs Phoenix Suns Injury Reports, Predicted Lineups, and Starting 5s

On Sunday, the Phoenix Suns take on the New Orleans Pelicans at the Footprint Center in Game 1 of the first round of the NBA playoffs in 2022. The Suns won the season series 3-1 after meeting four games during the regular season. The Suns have been unstoppable all season, and they are the only club in the league to reach 60 victories. They have the greatest net rating in the league, with the fourth-best attack (114.8) and third-best defense (107.3). Their 32-9 road record is the greatest in the NBA this season and ranks fifth all-time.

After winning two play-in tournament games, the Pelicans scraped their way into the final playoff place. They are in the playoffs for the first time since 2018, and they did so without Zion Williamson's services for the whole season. While he is anxious to return to the court, the organization does not want to risk his injuring himself again. Williamson is unlikely to play in the rest of the playoffs.

Injury Report for the New Orleans Pelicans

Due to their individual leg ailments, the Pelicans have ruled out Zion Williamson and Kira Lewis Jr. for this game. Both players have been sidelined for a long time and are unlikely to play in the playoffs this year.

Injury Report for the Phoenix Suns

Landry Shamet is rated as questionable for the Suns due to a sprained left foot, while Dario Saric is out with an ACL tear in his right knee.

New Orleans Pelicans vs. Phoenix Suns Lineups Predicted

New Orleans Pelicans

CJ McCollum takes over as the team's starting point guard, with Herbert Jones joining him in the backcourt. Brandon Ingram is expected to play small forward, while Jaxson Hayes will play power forward. Jonas Valanciunas should keep his starting spot in the middle.

Phoenix Suns

For this game, the Suns will use their best lineup. The backcourt will be led by Chris Paul and Devin Booker, while the forwards will be Mikal Bridges and Jae Crowder. As is customary, Deandre Ayton will start at center, with JaVale McGee coming off the bench.

New Orleans Pelicans vs Phoenix Suns: Predicted Starting 5s

New Orleans Pelicans

G - CJ McCollum | G - Herbert Jones | F - Brandon Ingram | F - Jaxson Hayes | C - Jonas Valanciunas.

Phoenix Suns

G - Chris Paul | G - Devin Booker | F - Mikal Bridges | F - Jae Crowder | C - Deandre Ayton.