With the Western Conference playoff race heating up, the outcome of the Phoenix Suns versus New Orleans Pelicans matchup could profoundly impact both teams’ postseason aspirations. The Suns’ season has been a rollercoaster, but could Durant and Booker’s return be the boost they need to turn things around?

Thankfully, neither Durant nor Booker is on the injury report. Their return boosts the Suns after the team’s narrow 151-148 overtime loss to the Grizzlies. Kevin Durant had missed three consecutive games due to a left ankle sprain, while Devin Booker returned after sitting out one game with an ankle injury. But, they are clear for the upcoming matchup Durant and Booker don’t just make Phoenix’s offense better—they change everything. Defenses can’t focus on just one scorer, which means more open shots for Beal and better spacing for their entire system. Phoenix will have its Big Three intact, offering hope for a stronger offensive showing.

Durant continues to power the Suns’ offensive attack. He has scored 20 or more points in seven of the past eight games, including a 37-point performance in a 119-111 loss at Houston on Feb. 12, where he also recorded nine assists, five rebounds, and two steals. In 45 games this season, he is averaging 26.9 points, six rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 1.4 blocks in 36.8 minutes.

Booker, meanwhile, has been on a tear. He is coming off a double-double with 28 points, 10 assists, and three rebounds in the loss at Memphis on Tuesday. It was his ninth double-double of the season. He also dropped 31 points with eight assists, four rebounds, and two steals in a 127-109 loss at Toronto on Sunday. Across 52 games, he is averaging 26.2 points, 6.8 assists, four rebounds, and 1.1 steals in 37.2 minutes.

For the Phoenix Suns, who are currently in 11th place with a 27-31 record, this game represents a critical opportunity to regain momentum. With the top 10 teams qualifying, every win could decide a playoff spot or an early exit.

Clash could shape Postseason qualification for both teams

The Suns are chasing the Golden State Warriors, who currently hold the final Play-In spot. This game is vital to closing the narrow gap. With the Big Three of Durant, Booker, and Bradley Beal back together, this matchup will test the Suns’ playoff viability. Beating the Pelicans — a team directly above them in the standings — would boost Phoenix’s confidence and position them for a late-season surge.

The Suns’ recent struggles have exposed defensive weaknesses, allowing over 145 points in each of their last two losses. Against the Toronto Raptors, they suffered a 127-109 defeat. The Raptors converted 10 of 18 three-point attempts, while the Suns managed only 2 of 13. This scoring disparity highlighted Phoenix’s poor perimeter defense. While the absence of Durant and Booker contributed to the defeats, the team’s lack of defensive cohesion remains a larger issue.

The Pelicans hold the 9th place with a 33-26 record, but their postseason hopes are far from secure. Eight straight road losses and injuries to Herbert Jones and Dejounte Murray expose the Pelicans’ lack of depth. A win would stabilize their position in the Play-In race and give them breathing room ahead of the chasing pack. It would also break their road skid and restore confidence for the matches ahead. More importantly, it would strengthen their head-to-head record against the Suns, which could be crucial in a tiebreaker scenario. A loss, however, would shrink their cushion over lower seeds and increase pressure on their remaining games.

For Phoenix, this game isn’t just about a win—it’s about survival. With the playoff race heating up, every possession could tip the scales. The Suns’ Big Three have the firepower, but can they finally ignite at the right time? Or will New Orleans snuff out their spark and tighten their grip on the standings?