The Golden State Warriors will take on the Phoenix Suns in the second game of a doubleheader on the NBA's opening night. So many storylines fuel this matchup, between Chris Paul's Warriors debut and facing his former team for the first time to Kevin Durant returning to the Bay Area for the first time since leaving. There's also the fact that these two teams could be amongst the West's best, so perhaps it's a glimpse at a potential postseason matchup down the line.
Ahead of the Warriors-Suns matchup here's everything you need to know:
Golden State Warriors vs. Phoenix Suns
- Date: Tuesday, Oct. 24 | Time: 10 p.m. ET
- Location: Chase Center -- San Francisco
- TV channel: ESPN
- Odds:
Storylines
Warriors: All eyes will be on Chris Paul's debut with the Warriors. It was a head-scratching trade over the summer that sent Jordan Poole to the Wizards, but Golden State seems convinced that Paul is the answer to some of their problems. Aside from that though, is the absence of Draymond Green, who is out with an ankle sprain. Green's importance on the defensive side of the ball cannot be understated, and it leaves the Warriors incredibly vulnerable against Durant.
Suns: While the Warriors will be without Green, the Suns could potentially be without both Bradley Beal and Devin Booker. Both are listed as questionable for the game, but Beal is expected to be out with back tightness. If both players miss the season opener it will certainly dampen what has the potential of being an exciting matchup against two of the West's best teams. The Suns spent a significant amount of money to pair Beal with Durant and Booker, but it sounds like we may have to wait a little bit longer to see the Big 3 perform.
Prediction
Both sides are dealing with injuries, but I think the Suns are more significant in this matchup. I think Booker plays, but I don't think it will be enough to beat Golden State at home. Pick: Warriors
