A lot of NBA action other than the playoffs are alive and well for the postseason. Many players are experiencing injuries, and some teams are buckling under the pressure.
Some teams are excelling well and look like title contenders. Below you can see which teams are likely to succeed and which players are making headlines.
Devin Booker Out of Series Against New Orleans Pelicans
Devin Booker, Phoenix Suns’ leading scorer, recently suffered a hamstring injury during Game 2 against the Pelicans. It is reported that he is expected to miss at least two or three weeks as a result.
For the Suns, they have quoted that there is not a timetable for his return. These types of injuries are delicate and should be proceeded with caution.
Other sources have claimed that Booker has a mild hamstring injury and that his return could be sooner. This will be entirely up to how Booker responds to treatment.
Booker sustained his injury during Game 2, which the Suns actually lost. The series between the teams is now tied 1-1, making the Suns looking vulnerable at this time.
If this matchup went to seven games, the Suns could see Booker return. For now, he will be out at least the next two games and potentially the start of the next round.
Booker left the game around the third quarter and was having a career night ahead of him. He shot 12 for 19 from the field and 31 points, all in the first half.
The Celtics Have Stolen Another Win Away from Nets
The series between the Boston Celtics and Brooklyn Nets have been one of the most interesting matches so far in the playoffs. The Celtics are now up 2-0 and will head to Brooklyn for Game 3.
In both games, the Nets either had the lead or were very close to winning. In Game 1, they lost at the buzzer on a defensive breakdown. For Game 2, they gave up a large lead and lost late.
The largest deficit the Celtics faced was 17 in the first half. With a complete team effort, they rallied back to win by seven.
Kevin Durant had a rough game despite putting up 27 points. He shot four for 17 from the field and had six turnovers, along with Kyrie Irving having 10 points on four for 13 shooting.
The Nets appear to be done, according to the history of the NBA playoffs. However, the Nets have a roster that could spark a game or two at home.
Jayson Tatum shined through, despite not making his first five shots. He did not let that bother him and had 19 points to finish the game.
Ben Simmons has been rumored to suit up for Game 4 at home for this series. After missing a year due to a herniated disc in his back, he has been recently cleared for full contact. However, he will have to be in shape for the team to allow his debut in the season.
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