The Los Angeles Lakers dropped Game 1 on the road against the Phoenix Suns, 99-90, after another lackluster performance on both ends of the floor.
Dennis Schroder kicked things off for the Lakers, knocking down a pull-up jumper and earning an early trip to the free throw line. LeBron James followed with a pair of 3-pointers, but Deandre Ayton and the Suns responded to tie the game at 15.
Chris Paul and Devin Booker began to carve up the Laker defense as they pushed the basketball in transition, resulting in an 11-0 Suns run. James was able to find Montrezl Harrell twice in the final minute for easy baskets, but Los Angeles found themselves trailing 32-25 after one.