Phoenix Suns clinch play-in spot with opponent and location still in question

Who are they likely to face, and why are these next three games still important?

Apr 7, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) drives to the basket against Houston Rockets guard Josh Okogie (20) in the second half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Tuesday’s loss, coupled with the Minnesota Timberwolves’ win against the Indiana Pacers, eliminated Phoenix from contention for a top-six seed in the Western Conference. With both teams separated by four games and just three remaining on the Suns’ schedule, the focus now shifts to the play-in.

The Los Angeles Clippers remain closest to the Suns, holding the No. 8 seed and trailing by two games. For Phoenix to maintain home-court advantage, it must either win its final three games or win at least one while the Clippers drop one in the same stretch.

Apr 7, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) against Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

However, the Portland Trail Blazers are right behind Los Angeles, just one game back as of April 8. There is a chance Portland could swap spots with the Clippers, but it won’t be able to catch the Suns in the standings.

When it comes to performance, Phoenix has fared better at home than on the road. This season, the Suns are 19-20 on the road compared to 24-16 at home.

Finding rhythm and momentum early will be key, and playing in a familiar environment could give Phoenix an edge against its play-in opponent.

Apr 7, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns center Mark Williams (15) celebrates with Devin Booker (1) against the Houston Rockets in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

While not the seeding it envisioned, Phoenix has reentered the national playoff conversation after missing out last season. With a new group that has found its chemistry, the Suns have turned preseason expectations around. Finding themselves still playing “meaningful” games, as head coach Jordan Ott has said multiple times, reflects a team that has already exceeded those early expectations — and now has a chance to build on it.

After losing to the Rockets Tuesday night, the Phoenix Suns are locked into the Play-In. pic.twitter.com/fEF8dZA2Ut

— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) April 8, 2026