The Golden State Warriors and Phoenix Suns just wrapped up a two-game mini-series that felt more like a playoff preview than a pair of regular-season matchups. These weren’t just games-they were battles, and with both teams neck-and-neck in the Western Conference standings, there’s a real chance we haven’t seen the last of this rivalry this season.
Two Games, Two Statements
Thursday night in Phoenix ended in controversy, with the Suns escaping with a one-point win thanks to a late whistle that had Warriors fans-and players-shaking their heads. Saturday night at Chase Center, Golden State got their revenge, grinding out a three-point win in a game that had all the tension and physicality of a postseason clash.
Both contests were tight, both were intense, and both told us something important: these teams are closer than the standings might suggest, and if they meet again down the line, it’s going to be appointment viewing.
Play-In Implications Looming
As things stand today, the Suns and Warriors would be the 7th and 8th seeds in the West, which would pit them against each other in the Play-In Tournament. That’s not exactly where the Warriors want to be, but given the rollercoaster nature of their season so far, it’s a very real possibility.
Golden State has struggled to find any real rhythm this year. They’ve shown flashes-moments of vintage Warriors basketball-but those moments have been fleeting.
A win here, a loss there, and far too many games where they’ve let opportunities slip away. It’s left them in a precarious spot as the calendar flips toward the new year.
A Familiar Road Ahead?
The Warriors have been here before. Last season, they stumbled through the early months, found their footing late, and clawed their way into the Play-In.
Not only did they make it through, but they also knocked off the second-seeded Houston Rockets in the first round of the playoffs. That run was fueled by the midseason acquisition of Jimmy Butler-a move that gave the team a jolt of energy and edge when they needed it most.
Could another shake-up be coming? If Golden State wants to avoid the Play-In-or make noise if they land there-they might need to make a similar move to spark some momentum.
Bad Blood Brewing
If we do get another Warriors-Suns matchup in the postseason, circle it in red. Thursday’s game wasn’t just close-it got chippy.
Dillon Brooks delivered a cheap shot to Stephen Curry that didn’t go unnoticed, and you can bet that moment is going to linger. Add in the always-fiery Draymond Green, and you’ve got the makings of a playoff series with plenty of spice.
The Warriors have shown they can outthink and out-execute more talented teams when it matters most. They did it last year against Houston, leaning on their veteran savvy and playoff experience. If they meet Phoenix again, it might take that same formula-grit, guile, and a little bit of chaos.
What’s Next?
There’s still a lot of basketball to be played, and both teams have time to climb the standings. But if the Warriors and Suns do cross paths again in the Play-In or playoffs, expect fireworks. These teams don’t like each other, they match up well, and they’ve already given us two games that felt like something more.
And if it comes down to Curry vs. Brooks, Draymond vs. everyone, and a postseason berth on the line? That’s the kind of drama the NBA lives for.