2023 Playoffs Preview: Round 1 - PHO @ NOP

[Skip Bayless (Bball26 Analyst)]

#2 New Orleans Pelicans (24-5) vs. #7 Phoenix Suns (17-12)

I wish this matchup was closer, but the Suns are a year away and pretty much have no shot in this matchup after their end of season moves coupled with the Bobby Portis injury. The Pelicans are one of the favorites to come out of the West and the Maxey/Wiggins trade at the deadline makes this team very scary should they get McCollum and Wood back in time for round 2. The Suns have a bright future and with multiple 1sts in this upcoming draft, I look forward to next year's playoff preview with them

Suns X-factor: Doesn't matter
Pelicans X-factor: Only way they lose if is Johnny doesn't set his lineup

Caleb's pick: Pelicans
Tyler's pick: Pelicans
Sarge's pick: Pelicans
Skip's pick: Pelicans

[Skip Bayless (Bball26 Analyst)]

New Orleans Pelicans make quick work of the Phoenix Suns 885.5-520

As expected, the Pelicans faced little resistance in round 1 easily dispatching the Suns. The Pelicans were fortunate to have an easy first round matchup with a couple injuries and players held out due to trade rumors throughout the week. Both the Mavericks and Grizzlies were potential first round matchups and New Orleans would've lost to both.

The Pelicans can now turn to their first real challenge of the playoffs against the Dallas MavericksD

Player of the Game: Draymond Green - 112 points, 37.33 FPPG

Caleb's pick: Pelicans
Tyler's pick: Pelicans
Sarge's pick: Pelicans
Skip's pick: Pelicans