: In the series-clinching Game 6, Chris Paul set an NBA playoff record by going 14-of-14 from the field for 33 points.
: The back-and-forth between Chris Paul and Jose Alvarado became a fan-favorite subplot, characterized by Alvarado’s "backcourt pokes" and Paul’s savvy, veteran responses. Strategic Identity and Evolution
The modern tension between these two teams is rooted in the . Entering the series as the top seed after a franchise-record 64-win season, the Suns were heavily favored against the eighth-seeded Pelicans. However, New Orleans pushed Phoenix to six games, utilizing a gritty, physical defensive style led by Herbert Jones and Jose Alvarado. The series featured iconic moments, most notably:
: Ingram averaged 27 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 6.2 assists, leading the Pelicans to two victories and proving they could contend with the elite.
