In a disappointing turn of events, the Phoenix Suns faced a crushing defeat against the Houston Rockets, losing 109-148 at home on March 31, 2025. This loss marked the Suns' third consecutive defeat, further complicating their playoff aspirations. Adding to their woes, superstar Kevin Durant left the game with an ankle injury and did not return, raising concerns about his availability for the remainder of the season.
Following this latest setback, the Suns' record now stands at 35 wins and 40 losses, placing them 11th in the Western Conference. This ranking means they are effectively out of playoff contention, as they trail the 10th-place Sacramento Kings by 1.5 games and the 9th-place Dallas Mavericks by 2 games. The 8th-place Los Angeles Clippers are a staggering 7.5 games ahead, making it clear that the Suns' chances of catching up are slim.
With only 7 to 8 games left in the regular season, the Suns face a daunting schedule. Their remaining opponents include formidable teams like the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and Golden State Warriors. The only relatively easier matchup appears to be against the San Antonio Spurs. Optimistically, if the Suns manage to win against the Spurs and potentially against the Bucks or Kings, they could finish the season with a maximum of 38 wins. However, given their current form and injury issues, even achieving this seems like a tall order.
In contrast, the Mavericks, who have recently found their footing after a series of injury challenges, have won 4 of their last 5 games. They currently hold the 9th spot in the West with a record of 37 wins and 38 losses, leading the Kings by a narrow margin of 0.5 games. The return of key players such as Anthony Davis and P.J. Washington has bolstered their lineup significantly, while the anticipated returns of Dereck Lively II and Daniel Gafford next week promise to further enhance their chances of securing a playoff spot.
Dereck Lively II has been sidelined since January 14, 2025, due to an ankle injury. In the games he has played this season, he has averaged 9.1 points, 7.8 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.7 blocks. Meanwhile, Daniel Gafford, who has missed action since February 10, 2025, due to a knee injury, has also been a crucial player for the Mavericks, averaging 12.3 points and 6.9 rebounds in 51 games this season.
The Mavericks' recent resurgence has put them in a strong position to claim a playoff spot, especially with their upcoming schedule that features matchups against teams like the Brooklyn Nets and the Atlanta Hawks, which they are expected to win. With the Kings facing a tougher road ahead, the Mavericks are looking to solidify their position in the playoff race.
As the Suns grapple with their playoff hopes, questions arise about the significance of fighting for the 10th seed. Even if they manage to secure a spot in the play-in tournament, the odds of advancing are slim. Historically, no team seeded 10th has ever won two consecutive games in the play-in tournament to advance to the playoffs. This raises the question of whether it is worth pushing through the remaining games, especially with Durant's health in jeopardy.
"It’s tough to see the team in this position, especially after the expectations we had at the start of the season," said one Suns player, reflecting the frustration within the locker room. With the future uncertain, the Suns may need to consider whether it is wiser for Durant to rest and recover rather than risking further injury in a season that is rapidly slipping away.
As the season winds down, the Suns must face the reality of their situation. The combination of injuries, tough opponents, and the pressure to perform has left them in a precarious position. They will need to regroup and find a way to finish the season on a positive note, while also contemplating the future direction of the franchise.
Meanwhile, the Mavericks, with their key players returning and a favorable schedule, are poised to make a strong push for the playoffs. Their recent form and depth in the roster will be critical as they aim to secure a spot in the postseason. The excitement is palpable as fans await the final stretch of the season, with both teams at critical junctures in their respective campaigns.
