The Golden State Warriors are staring down a critical home game against the Phoenix Suns this Saturday, desperate to wash away the bitter taste of a devastating last-minute collapse just days ago. After a poor closing effort and subpar shooting led to a tough loss on Thursday, the Warriors squad promises a far more focused and determined performance at the Chase Centre.
Warriors vs Suns: Crucial Matchup Details
The stage is set for a high-stakes Western Conference clash. The Golden State Warriors (13-15) will host the Phoenix Suns (15-12) on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at 8:30 p.m. ET. The game will be broadcast locally on NBCS-BA for Warriors fans and on Suns+ and AZFamily for Suns supporters. For the Warriors, this is more than just another game; it's a chance to snap a damaging three-game losing streak and close the 2.5-game gap that separates them from the seventh-placed Suns in the standings.
Expected Lineups and Injury Concerns
Both teams will be navigating significant injury reports. The Warriors are expected to start with Stephen Curry and Moses Moody in the backcourt, Jimmy Butler III and Draymond Green at the forwards, and Quinten Post at centre. However, they will be without key players like Seth Curry (glute) and Al Horford (back), while Jonathan Kuminga (illness) remains day-to-day.
The Phoenix Suns' projected starting five features Collin Gillespie, Devin Booker, Royce O'Neale, Dillon Brooks, and Mark Williams. Their bench depth is hampered, with Koby Brea (concussion), Isaiah Livers (hip), and Jalen Green (hamstring) all ruled out. Grayson Allen (knee) is currently listed as day-to-day.
Game Analysis and Prediction: Can Warriors Fix Their Flaws?
The Warriors' previous defeat, where they held Phoenix to just 99 points, was a story of self-inflicted wounds. Poor execution, thoughtless turnovers, and a stark deficit in fast-break points (6 vs. Phoenix's 22) were their undoing. The team's struggle against faster, more explosive opponents has highlighted a perceived lack of athleticism, particularly in the centre rotation, which they are reportedly looking to address.
Stephen Curry, the undeniable sun of the Warriors' solar system, is back in the lineup but is still searching for his first win since returning. While his brilliance is a constant, great teams need systemic answers. The Warriors not only failed in transition offense but also gave up critical three-pointers in transition defense.
Tonight's rematch at the Chase Centre is a prime opportunity for revenge. Expect a locked-in Warriors team, especially from Curry, who will be keen to atone for the recent shooting slump. However, the Suns, despite their own 15 turnovers in the last game, have the firepower in Devin Booker and the defensive grit to exploit Golden State's current vulnerabilities. The prediction hinges on whether the Warriors can drastically reduce their errors and control the tempo. If they allow the Suns to run and create easy transition opportunities again, another long night awaits the home fans. The Warriors' playoff hopes demand a response, making this a must-watch contest.
