Lakers Vs Suns: What If They Played In The 2020 Playoffs?

Hey guys! Let's dive into a fun hypothetical: What if the Los Angeles Lakers and the Phoenix Suns had faced off in the 2020 NBA Playoffs? This is a dream matchup that, sadly, didn't happen, but imagining it is super exciting. Let's break down how this series might have played out, considering each team's strengths, weaknesses, and key players at the time. We’ll explore the possible strategies, the star performances we could have witnessed, and ultimately, who might have come out on top. This is all just speculation, of course, but it's a fun way to appreciate the dynamics of these two iconic teams.

The 2020 Lakers: A Championship-Caliber Squad

First, let's remember how dominant the 2020 Lakers were. Led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis, this team was built for playoff success. LeBron, even at that stage of his career, was orchestrating the offense with incredible vision and scoring prowess. His ability to drive to the basket, find open teammates, and control the tempo of the game was unmatched. Then you had Anthony Davis, a defensive monster and a reliable scoring threat. His versatility allowed the Lakers to switch defensively and create mismatches on offense. The supporting cast was nothing to scoff at either.

Players like Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Danny Green, and Rajon Rondo brought valuable experience and complementary skills. Caldwell-Pope was a solid three-point shooter and defender, while Green provided veteran leadership and perimeter defense. Rondo, known for his high basketball IQ and playmaking, was crucial in leading the second unit and making smart decisions in crucial moments. The Lakers' size and defensive intensity were their main advantages. They could bully teams in the paint and disrupt offenses with their length and athleticism. Their playoff run proved just how effective this formula was, as they bulldozed through the Western Conference and ultimately clinched the NBA title in the bubble.

Their coaching staff, led by Frank Vogel, implemented a defensive scheme that maximized their personnel. They focused on limiting easy baskets, controlling the boards, and making opponents work for every point. Offensively, they relied on LeBron and AD to carry the load, but they also had enough shooting and playmaking around them to keep defenses honest. This balance made them incredibly tough to beat in a seven-game series. The Lakers' mentality was also a huge factor. They had a clear goal in mind and were willing to do whatever it took to achieve it. LeBron's leadership and championship experience permeated the entire team, creating a culture of accountability and determination. This mental fortitude was evident in their ability to overcome adversity and close out games, which are essential traits for any championship contender.

The Suns' Rising Potential in 2020

Now, let’s not forget about the Suns. In 2020, they were a team on the rise, led by the young and electrifying Devin Booker. While they didn't make the playoffs that year, they showed flashes of brilliance, especially during their undefeated run in the bubble. Booker was quickly becoming one of the league's premier scorers, capable of dropping 30 or 40 points on any given night. His offensive repertoire was diverse, with a smooth jump shot, crafty drives to the basket, and an improving playmaking ability. The Suns also had some promising pieces around Booker.

Deandre Ayton, the former number one overall pick, was developing into a solid center. His rebounding, interior defense, and improving offensive game were crucial to the Suns' success. Players like Kelly Oubre Jr. and Mikal Bridges provided athleticism, defense, and complementary scoring. Oubre was a high-energy player who could score in bunches, while Bridges was a versatile defender and a reliable three-point shooter. The Suns' coaching staff, led by Monty Williams, was beginning to instill a culture of accountability and teamwork. They focused on developing their young players and implementing a system that maximized their strengths. The Suns' bubble performance was a testament to their potential, as they showcased their ability to compete with some of the league's best teams.

Their up-tempo offense and improved defense made them a dangerous opponent. They played with a sense of urgency and determination, knowing that they had something to prove. Booker's leadership and competitiveness were also key factors in their success. He embraced the challenge of being the team's primary scorer and was willing to take on any opponent. While they still had some areas to improve, the Suns were clearly on the right track, and their future looked bright. Their ability to learn and adapt was evident in their progress throughout the season, and they were poised to make a leap into playoff contention in the years to come. The Suns' resilience and determination were qualities that would serve them well as they continued to build towards their ultimate goal of winning a championship.

Hypothetical Playoff Matchup: Lakers vs. Suns

So, if these two teams had met in the 2020 playoffs, what would have happened? The Lakers would have likely been the favorites, given their experience and star power. LeBron's ability to control the game and exploit mismatches would have been a major advantage. AD’s presence on both ends of the floor would have also been a huge factor, challenging the Suns' interior offense and protecting the rim. However, the Suns would not have been an easy out. Booker's scoring ability could have given the Lakers some headaches, and their improved defense would have made it difficult for the Lakers to score easily.

A key matchup would have been LeBron James versus Mikal Bridges. Bridges' length and defensive prowess could have bothered LeBron, but LeBron's experience and basketball IQ would have made him a tough cover. Another crucial matchup would have been Anthony Davis versus Deandre Ayton. AD's versatility and offensive skills would have tested Ayton's defense, while Ayton's size and strength could have challenged AD in the paint. The series could have come down to which team could control the pace and impose their will on the other. The Lakers would have wanted to slow the game down and rely on their half-court offense and defense, while the Suns would have wanted to speed things up and use their athleticism and shooting to their advantage.

Potential Series Scenarios

• Lakers in 6: This is a likely scenario where the Lakers' experience and star power would eventually prevail. LeBron and AD would dominate at key moments, and the Lakers' defense would wear down the Suns over time.
• Lakers in 7: The Suns' resilience and Booker's scoring ability could push the series to seven games. However, the Lakers' championship pedigree would ultimately give them the edge in a hard-fought series.
• Suns in 7 (Upset): This is a long shot, but if Booker goes supernova and the Suns' role players step up, they could potentially pull off the upset. The Lakers would need to struggle with injuries or internal issues for this to happen.

Ultimately, the Lakers' experience, star power, and defensive prowess would likely have been too much for the Suns to overcome in 2020. However, the Suns would have given them a tough fight and provided a glimpse of their bright future. This hypothetical matchup is a reminder of how quickly things can change in the NBA and how important it is to appreciate the present moment. Who knows what could have happened if these two teams had actually met in the playoffs? It's fun to imagine the possibilities and appreciate the greatness of both teams.

Conclusion: A Missed Opportunity

In conclusion, while the Lakers and Suns never clashed in the 2020 playoffs, imagining the series is a fascinating exercise. The Lakers, with their championship-caliber roster led by LeBron and AD, would have been the favorites. However, the Suns, powered by Devin Booker's scoring and a rising young core, would have presented a formidable challenge. The series would have been a clash of styles, with the Lakers' deliberate pace against the Suns' up-tempo game. Ultimately, the Lakers' experience and defensive strength would likely have been the deciding factors, but the Suns' potential would have made the series a thrilling contest. This hypothetical matchup serves as a reminder of the exciting possibilities that the NBA offers and the unpredictable nature of the playoffs. Whether you're a Lakers fan, a Suns fan, or just a basketball enthusiast, it's fun to speculate about what could have been and appreciate the greatness of both teams. Thanks for joining me in this fun exploration!