Two Western Conference contenders looking to halt their recent slides, the Golden State Warriors and the Phoenix Suns, are set for a high-stakes showdown on Thursday night. The game will tip off at the Mortgage Matchup Centre in Phoenix, with both squads desperate for a win to steady their seasons.
Recent Form and Heartbreaking Losses
The Warriors and Suns enter this contest carrying the weight of painful back-to-back defeats. The Phoenix Suns' loss was particularly agonizing. On Sunday night, they staged a remarkable comeback from a 20-point deficit in the final 7 minutes and 48 seconds, even taking a one-point lead with just 12.2 seconds on the clock. However, the visiting Los Angeles Lakers held their nerve in the closing moments to snatch a 116-114 victory.
Meanwhile, the Golden State Warriors also fell short in a high-scoring affair. They lost 136-131 on the road to the Portland Trail Blazers after a back-and-forth fourth quarter. The silver lining for the Warriors was a spectacular performance from their superstar, Stephen Curry, who exploded for 48 points, including 12 three-pointers.
Team Analysis and Key Players
The Warriors' road record is a major concern, standing at just 6-10 this season. Their overall record of 13-14 places them below the .500 mark. They will need Curry's magic to travel to Phoenix.
On the other side, the Phoenix Suns, under first-year head coach Jordan Ott, have surprised many with their strong defensive identity. They currently hold the seventh spot in the competitive Western Conference with a 14-12 record. A significant factor in their resilience has been the play of Dillon Brooks. In the absence of Kevin Durant and with Jalen Green suspended, Brooks is enjoying a career year, averaging a personal-best 21.6 points per game as the team's second offensive option behind Devin Booker.
Injury Report and Expected Lineups
Both teams will be dealing with significant absences. For the Phoenix Suns, Grayson Allen (Knee), Isaiah Livers (Hip), Koby Brea (Concussion), and Jalen Green (Hamstring) are on the injury list.
The Golden State Warriors will likely be without Al Horford (Back), Seth Curry (Thigh), and Pat Spencer (Personal).
Based on available players, the expected starting lineups are projected as follows:
Phoenix Suns: PG Collin Gillespie, SG Devin Booker, SF Grayson Allen, PF Dillon Brooks, C Mark Williams.
Golden State Warriors: PG Stephen Curry, SG Moses Moody, SF Jimmy Butler III, PF Draymond Green, C Quinten Post.
How and Where to Watch in India
For fans in India, the game will be available through official broadcasts on NBA League Pass (global) and Amazon Prime Video in several regions. Comprehensive coverage, including live stats, analysis, and previews, will also be provided by VAVEL.
Game Prediction and Stakes
This matchup pits the Warriors' offensive firepower, led by Stephen Curry, against the Suns' structured defense. A key battle will be between Curry and Suns' guard Devin Booker. Furthermore, Dillon Brooks' scoring form, especially noting his higher average at home (25.2 PPG) compared to on the road (18.5 PPG), will be crucial for Phoenix. With both teams eager to avoid a third consecutive loss, expect a fiercely competitive game where every possession will matter in the race for Western Conference positioning.
