Devin Booker’s Defense Can Keep Him in NBA Finals MVP Conversation

Devin Booker is still struggling to find his shot. 

He shot 8-for-21 from the field last night, continuing the trend of poor shooting. Booker started shooting poorly in Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals. In Game 1 of the Conference Finals, Booker had a 40-point triple-double on 50% shooting. He hasn’t shot 41% in a game since then. 

Despite getting the win, Booker’s play has dropped him in the Finals MVP standings. He was second with +250 odds yesterday and now sits at third with +400 odds. Chris Paul strengthened his case after a clinical Game 1, putting up 32 points and nine rebounds on 63.2% shooting. Giannis Antetokounmpo is back to second on the odds (+350) list just by showing his face in Game 1.

Even if Booker’s shot eludes him for the rest of the series, he can still keep himself in the conversation with his defense. 

Although Booker isn’t known for his lockdown defensive ability, Game 1 showed a different side of him. Bucks players went 1-for-11 with Booker as the primary defender. Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday got the bulk of Booker’s defense and they went a combined 0-for-9.

For the game, Middleton and Holiday went 16-for-40 -- with Holiday shooting 4-for-14. Even if Holiday proved to just have a bad day, Booker was still able to slow down him and Middleton. 

Booker’s defense, especially if it produces those kinds of results, will be critical in him staying close to Chris Paul in getting the Finals MVP. 

Offensively, Booker still has a case. He has the most clutch points of anyone on the Suns and has taken the second-most shots in the clutch this postseason.

All Booker needs to do is be close to his normal level and he will be fine. Serviceable offense, great defending and clutch buckets are all he needs to bring the Finals MVP Trophy to his house.