Phoenix Suns vs Golden State Warriors – NBA Preview – January 31, 2025

The Phoenix Suns travel to San Francisco to take on the Golden State Warriors on Friday night at Chase Center. The Suns sit at ninth in the Western Conference with a 24-22 record, while the Warriors are just behind them in 11th place at 24-23. The two teams have split their meetings this season, with Golden State winning the last matchup 109-105 in December.
Both teams enter the game coming off key performances. Phoenix had a three-game win streak snapped with a 121-113 loss to Minnesota, while Golden State secured a 116-109 victory over Oklahoma City behind 27 points from Andrew Wiggins.
Suns Preview – Can Phoenix Find Consistency?
The Suns are trying to gain momentum as they push toward the top half of the Western Conference standings. Kevin Durant led the team with 33 points in the loss to Minnesota, while Devin Booker added 28. Bradley Beal came off the bench and contributed 17 points and six assists.
Beal’s role remains in flux, with coach Mike Budenholzer opting to start Royce O’Neale in place of the injured Ryan Dunn. Beal’s contract has also been rumored in trade talks ahead of next week’s deadline, making his performance something to watch closely.
Defensively, the Suns will need to tighten up, as they’ve allowed 120+ points in two of their last three games. They will have to slow down a Warriors team that has found some offensive rhythm in recent games.
Warriors Preview – Will Wiggins Keep Rolling?
Golden State has won three of its last five games, largely behind the improved play of Andrew Wiggins. The forward has led the team in scoring over the last five games, averaging 21.6 points per contest. His 27 points against the Thunder helped the Warriors pick up a much-needed win.
Stephen Curry had 21 points and four assists against Oklahoma City but has struggled with efficiency, shooting just 6-for-15 from the field. Draymond Green remains out with a calf injury, and Jonathan Kuminga is also sidelined, leaving the Warriors with a thin frontcourt rotation.
Golden State has been inconsistent at home, sitting at 14-12 at Chase Center. They will need strong performances from their role players to pick up a win against Phoenix.
Betting Prediction
The Suns are slight road favorites at -1.5, with the total set at 228.5. Both teams have been unpredictable this season, making this a tough call. The Suns have the star power in Durant and Booker, but Golden State has played well at home and is getting strong contributions from Wiggins.
Phoenix’s defense has been shaky, and the Warriors’ recent offensive surge could give them the edge in a close game. Expect a tight contest, but Golden State should cover as a home underdog.
Pick: Warriors +1.5