The Phoenix Suns thrived on playing each regular season game with meaning. This included 14 games without star guard Devin Booker. Expect coach Monty Williams to make adjustments and for Cam Johnson to be ready for the moment. Take the Suns as they live with Brandon Ingram’s high efficiency, but hurt the Pelicans more so on the offensive end.

Although the Suns will miss the injured Devin Booker, Chris Paul and DeAndre Ayton should be enough to carry them. Cameron Payne and Jae Crowder need to wake up and perform well and I think they will. The Suns' defense leads the way to a Game 3 win. Back the Suns to cover.

Early word is that the Suns will likely not have Devin Booker for this game in New Orleans due to his hammy. Can they win without him? Sure, but I have to take the points now (probably drop a bit once official). Phoenix was 8-6 without him this year; six losses is 33 percent of their season loss total.