Chris Paul says extra rest before NBA Finals has helped injured right hand

Chris Paul revealed after the Phoenix Suns' Game 6 series-clinching victory over the Los Angeles Clippers in the Western Conference Finals that he had played with partially torn ligaments in his right hand. 

On Saturday, he said the extra days of rest before the NBA Finals have been beneficial, according to ESPN's Dave McMenamin. The 36-year-old also said he managed the injury well during the Western Conference Finals. 

Paul also dealt with a nerve issue in his shoulder during the first round against the Los Angeles Lakers and contracted COVID-19 between the second round and the conference finals. He added that he's appreciative of the time off. 

"Each day that we've had off has been really good, and we all get a chance to rest up a little bit before we get it going again," Paul said.

Despite the ailments, Paul has been one of Phoenix's best players this postseason. He's averaging 18.1 points, 3.9 rebounds and 8.7 assists per game while shooting 47% from the field and 40.5% from deep. 

One of his best performances came in the Suns' series-clinching Game 6 victory over the Clippers. The 11-time All-Star scored 41 points to go along with four rebounds and eight assists in the 130-103 win. 

The Suns will now face the Milwaukee Bucks, who defeated the Atlanta Hawks in six games during the Eastern Conference Finals, in the NBA Finals. 

Game 1 of the championship round is set for Tuesday.