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

The New Orleans Pelicans take on the Phoenix Suns in Game 4 of their first-round NBA playoff series at the Smoothie King Center. The Suns, who are 2-1 up in the series, will try to extend their lead to 3-1 before returning home for Game 5. Because of Devin Booker's injury and the Golden State Warriors' newfound supremacy, the Suns have been knocked off as title favorites. They lost Game 2 at home, but Chris Paul and the rest of the team came back to win Game 3 and take the series lead.

With 28 points and 14 assists on 55 percent shooting in Game 3, Paul had one of the greatest postseason games of his career. His double-double was impressive, but it was the way he finished the game that was even better. He had 12 assists and nine points through three quarters. He then came through in crunch time, scoring 19 of his 28 points in the fourth quarter. On the other hand, the Pelicans are scratching and clawing at their 64-win opponents. Jose Alvarado came up big in the fourth period, scoring all nine of his points. On the offensive end, CJ McCollum and Brandon Ingram are leading the club with 55.7 points per game on nearly 50% shooting.

Injury Report for the Phoenix Suns

Due to a hamstring injury, Devin Booker is still sidelined and there is no timetable for his return. Dario Saric is also out for this game, as he has been for the whole season.

Injury Report for the New Orleans Pelicans

Zion Williamson and Kira Lewis Jr. have been absent this season due to long-term ailments. The organization and Williamson are reportedly at odds over whether the third-year pro is ready to play.

Predicted Lineups for Phoenix Suns vs. New Orleans Pelicans

Cameron Johnson will replace Devin Booker in the starting lineup for the Suns. As is customary, Mikal Bridges and Jae Crowder will be the forward duo. The point guard and center positions will be filled by Chris Paul and Deandre Ayton, respectively. Cam Payne, JaVale McGee, and Landry Shamet will enter the game as reserves. CJ McCollum and Herbert Jones will play in the backcourt for the Pelicans, while Brandon Ingram and Jaxson Hayes will play in the frontcourt. Jonas Valanciunas will remain in the starting lineup. Trey Murphy III, Larry Nance Jr., Devonte' Graham, and Naji Marshall are among the players who could make an impact off the bench.

Phoenix Suns vs New Orleans Pelicans: Predicted Starting 5s

Phoenix Suns

G - Chris Paul | G - Cameron Johnson | F - Mikal Bridges | F - Jae Crowder | C - Deandre Ayton.

New Orleans Pelicans

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