3 keys to success for Warriors in elimination game vs. Suns

After defeating the Los Angeles Clippers Wednesday night, the Golden State Warriors are one win away from the playoffs.

That said, they'll have to get through a tough road matchup against the Phoenix Suns to get there.

Ahead of Friday night's game, these are three keys to success for Golden State.

3. Keeping Phoenix away from the free throw line

Throughout the regular season, the Suns averaged the third-fewest made free throws per game. That's a trend Golden State will hope to continue. However, when at the line, the Suns can be dangerous. Devin Booker, Collin Gillespie, Grayson Allen and Dillon Brooks all shoot 84% from the line or higher.

2. Protecting the basketball

Both the Warriors and Suns each ranked in the top-four in steals throughout the 2025-26 regular season. With excellent defenders like Draymond Green and the aforementioned Brooks on both sides, Golden State will hope to take better care of the ball than their opponents.

1. Rebounding

The Suns ranked fourth in the league in offensive rebounds throughout the regular season but finished 29th in defensive rebounds. If Kristaps Porzingis (listed as questionable) is unable to suit up, Golden State could have trouble with and on the glass.