Paul Pierce Blasts Lakers and Suns With Brutal ‘Low-IQ’ Playoff Warning

Paul Pierce pulled no punches — and both the Lakers and Suns were in the crosshairs.

The former NBA champion and Hall of Famer delivered a scathing assessment of the Los Angeles Lakers and Phoenix Suns, casting serious doubt on their ability to make noise in the postseason.

Following LA’s 116–114 win over Phoenix, Pierce made his stance crystal clear during an appearance on the No Fouls Given podcast.

🎙️ Pierce’s Verdict: “Lowest IQ Finish I’ve Seen”

Pierce didn’t mince words when reflecting on the final moments of the Lakers-Suns showdown.

“This was the lowest IQ last four minutes of a game I’ve seen this season… Neither one of these teams can win a playoff series.”

It was a brutal take — and one that instantly lit up NBA discourse.

Despite the dramatic finish and star power on both sides, Pierce wasn’t impressed by what he saw when execution mattered most.

⏱️ A Chaotic Final Sequence

The ending did little to help either team’s case.

The Lakers had blown a 20-point lead, allowing Phoenix to claw back into the game. With 12.2 seconds remaining, Dillon Brooks drilled a three-pointer to give the Suns a 114–113 lead, igniting the arena.

Moments later, Brooks made contact with LeBron James, picking up his second technical foul and getting ejected — a turning point that swung momentum back to Los Angeles.

🎯 Free Throws Decide the Outcome

Chaos continued.

Devin Booker fouled LeBron on a three-point attempt, sending James to the line. LeBron converted two of three free throws, putting the Lakers back on top.

On the final possession, Grayson Allen launched a desperation three that missed. Marcus Smart secured the rebound, absorbed the foul, and split his free throws — sealing the win.

It was dramatic.

It was messy.

And in Pierce’s eyes, it was telling.

🧠 Why Pierce Isn’t Buying the Contenders Narrative

For Pierce, the issue wasn’t talent — it was decision-making.

Late-game execution, composure, and situational awareness are what separate contenders from pretenders in the playoffs. And according to Pierce, neither team passed that test.

The blown lead, unnecessary fouls, technicals, and rushed possessions painted a picture of teams not ready for postseason pressure.

🔁 Pierce’s History With Both Franchises

Pierce’s comments hit harder given his deep ties to both organizations.

• He helped the Boston Celtics defeat the Lakers in the 2008 NBA Finals
• Watched Kobe Bryant and the Lakers return the favor in 2010
• Grew up in Inglewood, California, as a Lakers fan

As an analyst, Pierce has never shied away from strong opinions — whether praising Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, advocating for Devin Booker, or questioning Kevin Durant’s leadership.

🚨 A Warning, Not Just Criticism

This wasn’t just trash talk.

Pierce’s message was a warning.

If the Lakers and Suns don’t clean up their late-game habits, sharpen their execution, and eliminate self-inflicted mistakes, their playoff runs could end before they ever begin.

Star power alone won’t save them.

And Paul Pierce made sure everyone heard it.