The Phoenix Suns defeated the Los Angeles Lakers, 99-90, at Phoenix Suns Arena in Game 1 of their Western Conference quarterfinal-round series on Sunday afternoon.

The Suns (1-0) came into the contest as favorites over the defending champions due to how each team's respective regular season played out, but the contest was seen as a major early postseason litmus test for Monty Williams' squad. Phoenix passed with flying colors right from the start, forging a seven-point lead over the Lakers (0-1) through one and boasting an eight-point edge by halftime. The hosts then tacked on another five to their advantage heading into the final period despite a brief exit from the game by Chris Paul due to a shoulder injury, which appeared to affect him the rest of the way during a seven-point, eight-assist afternoon. The final period was mostly devoid of suspense, with the Suns holding a lead of no fewer than eight points throughout.

LeBron James led the Lakers with an 18-point, 10-assist double-double that also included seven rebounds and three steals. Dennis Schroder furnished 14 points, three assists, one rebound, two steals and one block. Anthony Davis delivered 13 points, seven rebounds, two assists and three blocks. Andre Drummond and Montrezl Harrell generated matching 12-point tallies while pulling down nine and three rebounds, respectively. Alex Caruso poured in 10 points.

Devin Booker paced the Suns with 34 points, complementing them with eight assists, seven rebounds and one steal. Deandre Ayton posted a 21-point, 16-rebound double-double that also included one block. Cameron Johnson and Mikal Bridges contributed matching 10-point, two-steal efforts while hauling in six and four rebounds, respectively.

The two teams reconvene at Phoenix Suns Arena for Game 2 on Tuesday night.