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NBA Finals: 3 takeaways from Bucks-Suns Game 1

By Jake Weinbach

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - JULY 06: Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns drives against Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks during the first quarter in Game One of the NBA Finals at Phoenix Suns Arena on July 06, 2021 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images)
PHOENIX, ARIZONA - JULY 06: Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns drives against Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks during the first quarter in Game One of the NBA Finals at Phoenix Suns Arena on July 06, 2021 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images) /
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Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images
Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images /

NBA Finals: Takeaways from Bucks-Suns Game 1: 1. Chris Paul outplayed Jrue Holiday by a mile

A key storyline heading into these NBA Finals included whether Milwaukee Bucks guard Jrue Holiday could contain 11-time All-Star Chris Paul while efficiently producing on the offensive end. Evidently, Holiday failed miserably during Game 1.

Paul dominated all aspects — scoring 32 points on 12-of-19 field goals, dishing out nine assists, nailing four 3’s, and controlling the pace. Holiday underperformed with just 10 points on 28.6 percent shooting, nine assists, and seven rebounds.

It may have been nerves for Holiday competing in his first NBA Finals or had to adjust with Antetokounmpo back in the lineup, but the All-NBA defender was clearly not himself. Ever since tip-off, Jrue looked too hesitant and non-decisive on both ends of the floor, which proved to be costly and affected his decision-making.

Paul took advantage and seemed to get whatever he wanted whenever he wanted offensively, and didn’t have to work as much defensively with Holiday settling for many step-back jumpers instead of penetrating toward the rim. Holiday’s at his best when he’s aggressive or attacking, maneuvering, and facilitating through the paint to create open looks for himself and his teammates.

For a guard as talented as Holiday, recording four points on 25 percent field goals at halftime is inexcusable, especially in the NBA Finals when the Bucks need him at his very best. He’s well-known for his high-end instincts, awareness, and decisiveness, but that was not on display on Tuesday night.

If the Bucks are going to succeed, Jrue Holiday’s two-way impact must improve moving forward. We know he’s capable of disrupting the best offensive players in the league as well as erupting offensively, but will he be able to bounce back and shine against CP3 next time around?