Golden State Warriors vs Phoenix-suns Picks and Predictions January 31st 2025

Suns and Warriors Face Off as Stars Step Up Amid Trade Rumors

As the NBA trade deadline looms, the Phoenix Suns and Golden State Warriors find themselves at a crossroads. Both teams have been linked to potential blockbuster deals for Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler, yet their recent performances suggest they might not need to shake things up after all.

Separated by just one loss in the Western Conference standings, the Suns (ninth place) and Warriors (11th place) will meet in San Francisco on Friday night, each riding the momentum of revitalized star performances.

Suns Balancing Wins and Trade Speculation

Phoenix had been building momentum with three straight wins before falling 121-113 to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday night. Kevin Durant poured in 33 points, and Devin Booker added 28, but the Suns couldn’t contain a red-hot Minnesota team.

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One of the biggest talking points surrounding the Suns right now is the role of Bradley Beal. The three-time All-Star, who came off the bench against the Timberwolves, contributed 17 points on an efficient 6-of-10 shooting while adding six assists. His hefty contract ($50.2 million this season) has made him a central figure in trade speculation, as he could be the key salary piece in any potential deal for Butler.

Despite the outside noise, head coach Mike Budenholzer emphasized that the team is still evaluating the best fit for its lineup.

“This is a real decision. Life in the NBA and life in general. I don’t think you should ever paint yourself into corners, but this is what we plan to do: Continue to evaluate. But I wouldn’t turn this into a day-to-day-type thing.”

Beal, for his part, has embraced his role and stayed locked in on the court.

Wiggins Leading the Way for Warriors

For the Warriors, Andrew Wiggins has been playing some of his best basketball of the season, leading the team in scoring over their last five games with an average of 21.6 points per game. His resurgence has played a key role in Golden State winning three of its last five games, including a 116-109 home victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday.

Wiggins led the way in that game with 27 points, stepping up in a big way as the Warriors continue their push to stay in the playoff race.

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Much like Beal in Phoenix, Wiggins has been a name frequently mentioned in trade rumors. His $26.3 million contract makes him a viable trade chip, but his recent performances have either increased his trade value or made him too valuable for Golden State to part with.

Still, Wiggins remains focused on helping the Warriors regain their winning form.

“It’s a big win for us. They’re the best team in the West, so just knowing what we’re capable of. When we play together, we play the right way and lock in. Hopefully this is a momentum swing for us—just keep piling on.”

Series Tied Heading into Crucial Showdown

The Suns and Warriors have already split their two previous meetings this season. Phoenix won the first matchup 113-105 in November, led by Booker (27 points) and Durant (21). Golden State responded in December with a 109-105 victory, powered by Jonathan Kuminga’s career-high-tying 34 points and Beal’s 28-point effort.

With both teams trying to climb the Western Conference standings and trade rumors swirling, Friday’s matchup could be a defining moment. Will Phoenix’s star trio of Durant, Booker, and Beal prove they don’t need to make a major move? Or will Wiggins and the Warriors continue their recent resurgence and show they have what it takes to compete as currently constructed?

The stage is set for an intense Pacific Division battle in San Francisco.