SAN FRANCISCO – Tonight’s rematch between the Phoenix Suns and Golden State Warriors offers Phoenix an opportunity to establish its identity against a proven contender while testing Jordan Ott’s ability to counter Steve Kerr’s adjustments. The Suns don’t need another reminder of how quickly momentum can change in the NBA. At 1-3, Monday’s matchup against the Golden State Warriors represents an opportunity to change the narrative before early-season struggles become a larger concern. Can Phoenix prove its season-opening win over a depleted Golden State team was more than an early-season anomaly?
Oct 24, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Graham Ike (45) drives on Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (15) in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
Golden State enters at 4-3 after winning four straight games, including Sunday’s 124-112 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers. Interestingly, its last loss came against Phoenix on Oct. 24. The Warriors were without all of their stars. Stephen Curry and Draymond Green both sat out Sunday’s game, but it seems like the duo will make a return, which creates a bigger storyline. Steph Curry’s availability significantly changes the challenge facing Phoenix, particularly against a Golden State offense beginning to find consistency.
Oct 24, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Jalen Green (4) drives on Golden State Warriors forward Georges Niang (32) in the second half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
The frontcourt matchup could be just as important. If Al Horford sits after playing Sunday, Steve Kerr could lean into smaller lineups, forcing Phoenix to decide whether to maintain its size with Khaman Maluach and Oso Ighodaro or adjust accordingly. For first-year head coach Jordan Ott, these decisions represent an early test of his coaching philosophy. Winning individual matchups is important but recognizing when to adjust could ultimately determine the outcome. Then there’s the Dillon Brooks-Yaxel Lendeborg matchup. Their offseason back-and-forth has added another layer to an already competitive rivalry. Lendeborg arrives after a 36-point performance against the Clippers, while Brooks brings the physical edge Phoenix has increasingly embraced.
Oct 24, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) reaches for the ball against the Golden State Warriors in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
Ultimately, this game is about more than revenge or a regular season win. Phoenix needs evidence that it can compete consistently against established Western Conference contenders. Beating Golden State once was encouraging, but it was without their core. Doing it again, particularly against a healthier Warriors lineup, would send a much stronger message.
Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*
Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
