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

The series turns to the Big Easy, as the New Orleans Pelicans take on the Phoenix Suns in Game 6 of their first-round playoff series at the Smoothie King Center. The Suns won Game 5 at home to grab a 3-2 lead in the series and are one win away from advancing to the conference semifinals. In the absence of Devin Booker, the Suns appeared to be in trouble, but they rallied for a 15-point victory in Game 5. Coach Monty Williams chose to showcase the team's defensive prowess without Booker on the field. The Pelicans were restricted to under 50% shooting and forced 15 turnovers. Despite the Pelicans scoring 15 more free throws, their perimeter defense was excellent, and they won by double digits.

To save their season, the Pelicans will aim to force a Game 7 on the road. Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum have been outstanding this season, and they will need to be at their best in front of their home crowd for this matchup. Coach Willie Green's Jose Alvarado has been a revelation in this series. He has played excellent defense against superstar point guard Chris Paul, leveling the series with his ability to keep CP3 in check.

Injury Report for the Phoenix Suns

Due to a hamstring strain and an ACL tear, Devin Booker and Dario Saric are both out. Booker has yet to set a comeback date, but the team expects him to return during the current postseason, otherwise, their title aspirations will be dashed. Meanwhile, Saric has been out for the entire season.

Injury Report for the New Orleans Pelicans

Both Zion Williamson and Kira Lewis Jr. are still out. Lewis Jr. is out with an ACL sprain, while Williamson is out after undergoing foot surgery following a season-ending fracture. Williamson was dunking and practicing before the games, so there's a chance he'll be back for this series, but the team decided not to risk more damage.

Predicted Lineups for Phoenix Suns vs. New Orleans Pelicans

Phoenix Suns

Cameron Johnson has been starting off-guard in place of Devin Booker and should continue to do so. As is customary, Mikal Bridges and Jared Crowder will play forward, while Chris Paul and Deandre Ayton will play point guard and center, respectively. Cam Payne, JaVale McGee, and Landry Shamet are all possible bench players.

New Orleans Pelicans

CJ McCollum and Herbert Jones might play in the backcourt, with Brandon Ingram and Jaxson Hayes in the frontcourt. Jonas Valanciunas is expected to keep his starting center spot. Off the bench, Trey Murphy III, Larry Nance Jr., and Jose Alvarado should see the most action.

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.