Jalen Green scored 36 points, including eight three-pointers, to lead the Phoenix Suns to a 111-96 victory over the Golden State Warriors in the 2026 NBA Play-In Tournament on April 18, 2026. The win secured the Suns the eighth seed in the Western Conference and a first-round matchup with the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder. The Orlando Magic also advanced by defeating the Charlotte Hornets 121-90, earning the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference and a series against the Detroit Pistons.
The Suns led by as many as 18 points throughout the game, forcing 20 turnovers that translated into 30 points. Green’s performance tied the Play-In Tournament record for three-pointers made in a single game. Stephen Curry managed only 17 points on 4-of-16 shooting, reflecting the Warriors’ fatigue after a grueling win over the Los Angeles Clippers two nights prior. Draymond Green was ejected with 1:04 remaining after exchanging words with Devin Booker, and later fouled out as the Warriors’ bench cleared.
The Warriors’ season ended with questions about their aging roster, particularly Curry’s 38-year-old knees and Draymond Green’s 36-year-old tenure. The Suns, meanwhile, viewed the playoff berth as a step toward rebuilding trust after the Kevin Durant-Bradley Beal trade’s fallout, even if they face long odds against the Thunder. Orlando’s victory highlighted their depth, with all five starters scoring in double figures and Paolo Banchero leading with 25 points, five rebounds, and six assists.
How the Suns secured the eighth seed despite inconsistent regular-season performance
The Suns entered the Play-In Tournament needing a win to validate their roster moves after the Durant-Beal trade, which left fans questioning the team’s direction. Green’s scoring outburst provided the necessary spark, as he had not faced the Warriors during the regular season and used the game to establish himself as a go-to scorer. The Suns’ defense forced turnovers that fueled their offense, allowing them to maintain control even when the Warriors attempted late comebacks.
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Why the Warriors’ season ended with uncertainty about their future
Curry’s limited output highlighted the physical toll of a season marked by injuries and roster adjustments. His inability to find space against the Suns’ defense signaled that the Warriors could no longer rely solely on his scoring to overcome defensive schemes. Draymond Green’s ejection and foul-out further disrupted the team’s cohesion, leaving the bench to absorb the final minutes without its core leaders. The Warriors now face an offseason where decisions about Curry’s health, roster composition, and potential trades will shape their trajectory.
What the Magic’s victory reveals about their Eastern Conference positioning
Orlando’s dominant performance against the Hornets showcased their balanced attack, with every starter contributing to a 31-point halftime lead. Banchero’s all-around game—scoring, rebounding, and playmaking—demonstrated why he remains a cornerstone for the Magic’s future. The victory positions Orlando to face the Detroit Pistons in the first round, where their depth and interior presence could pose challenges for Detroit’s perimeter-oriented roster.
What does the Suns’ eighth seed mean for their playoff chances against the Thunder?
As the eighth seed, the Suns face a daunting challenge against the top-seeded Thunder, who have dominated the regular season. While the Suns may not win a game in the series, avoiding embarrassment and gaining playoff experience could serve as a foundation for future growth, particularly if they build around Green’s scoring ability and defensive versatility.
How will the Warriors’ offseason decisions impact their competitiveness next season?
With Curry’s knee health a central concern and Draymond Green’s role evolving, the Warriors must decide whether to retool around their aging stars or pursue a younger roster. The outcome will depend on front-office decisions regarding trades, free agency, and how they integrate young talent like Brandin Podziemski into a competitive framework.
