Warriors Kick Off Season vs Phoenix Suns

Liam O’Connor

October 24th, 2023

(Warriors Superstar Guard Stephen Curry Dribbles up the court)

The 2023-24 NBA season is set to tip off with a rival showdown between the Golden State Warriors and the Phoenix Suns. Both teams have made significant offseason moves, and the anticipation is rising as they prepare to showcase their revamped rosters. Let's dive into the pre-game analysis and what to expect in this exciting season opener.

Ahead of the season opener, the Suns find themselves facing a potential setback. New head coach Frank Vogel reported that while Devin Booker (toe soreness) and Bradley Beal (back) both practiced, Beal is considered "unlikely to play". Phoenix is taking a cautious approach with Beal's back, aiming to preserve him for later in the season. Despite this, the Suns have a formidable lineup with the likes of Booker, Kevin Durant, and Jusuf Nurkic, complemented by a deep bench, featuring players like Yuta Watanabe, Bol Bol, and Grayson Allen, who were acquired during the offseason. This depth has eased concerns about the Suns' roster and their usage of their 3 superstars.

( Guard Moses Moody Dunks in A Matchup vs the Suns)

On the other side of the court, the Golden State Warriors have their own star-studded addition in Chris Paul, who will be making his Warriors debut. Paul joined the Warriors after a trade with the Suns that involved Jordan Poole. However, with Draymond Green sidelined due to a sprained ankle, the Warriors' lineup remains uncertain.

One possibility is Paul starting alongside Stephen Curry in the backcourt, although this would result in a smaller lineup. Paul might come off the bench, leading the second unit, while Jonathan Kuminga could potentially start as power forward. Warriors' coach Steve Kerr has emphasized the need for discipline and leadership, particularly among the second unit. Paul's arrival promises to bring a new mentality, while seasoned veterans like Curry and Klay Thompson will anchor the starting backcourt. The story of this game is surronded by the return of Chris Paul to Phoenix, where he previously played for the Suns. Despite Paul's assurances of no harsh feelings, there's no doubt he's eager to prove himself against his former team. (I wouldn’t be shocked if a scuffle were to break out). Adding to the drama, Kevin Durant, who left the Golden State Warriors four years ago, will be facing his former team for the first time. Durant, like Paul, has refrained from making negative comments about his former team, but his history with Draymond Green might be something to watch for. Furthermore, players like Damion Lee and Dario Saric will be up against their former teams, injecting further intrigue into this season opener. This game promises to be one of the marquee matchups to kick off the season. We can anticipate a high-scoring game characterized by innovative offense, as two of the NBA's best teams. Stay tuned for what's sure to be an unforgettable showdown as the Warriors and Suns set the stage for what promises to be an action-packed 2023-24 NBA season.