The Phoenix Suns and Golden State Warriors, two teams rumored to be contenders for Jimmy Butler, are set to face off in a key matchup that highlights why they may not need the superstar. The Suns, currently ninth in the Western Conference, and the Warriors, in 11th, are separated by just one loss. Phoenix had won three straight before a 121-113 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, with Kevin Durant scoring 33 points and Devin Booker adding 28. Bradley Beal, who scored 17 points off the bench, has been central in the Suns’ potential trade talks, with his massive $50.2 million contract crucial for a possible deal for Butler. Suns head coach Mike Budenholzer addressed the decision to start Royce O’Neale over Beal, given Ryan Dunn’s injury, and acknowledged the business side of decisions at this time of year. “This is a real decision,” Budenholzer stated. “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.”
On the Warriors’ side, Andrew Wiggins has stepped up, averaging 21.6 points over the last five games, helping the team win three of their last five, including a 116-109 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder. “It’s a big win for us,” Wiggins commented on the Thunder win. “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.”
The two teams have split their previous encounters this season, with the Suns winning 113-105 in November and the Warriors taking a 109-105 victory in December.
