Phoenix Suns vs. Cleveland Cavaliers: A Match Preview for January 31st, 2026
Get ready for an exciting NBA clash as the Phoenix Suns host the Cleveland Cavaliers at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, AZ on January 31st, 2026. This game promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams showcasing their unique strengths and facing significant injury challenges. Find out where to catch all the action with our comprehensive guide on NBA streams at /nba-streams.
Team Form and Recent Performances
The Phoenix Suns and Cleveland Cavaliers arrive at this game with contrasting recent form. Let's take a closer look at their last five games:
Phoenix Suns (1-4):
The Suns have been struggling recently, losing four of their last five games. Their wins and losses highlight their inconsistency:
- L 112-98 @ New York Knicks - A disappointing loss against a strong Knicks team. Devin Booker's performance will be crucial in turning things around.
- L 133-95 vs Golden State Warriors - A heavy defeat against the Warriors exposed defensive vulnerabilities. The Suns need to improve their rebounding and overall court awareness.
- L 125-112 vs Oklahoma City Thunder - Another defeat against a young and energetic Thunder team suggests a lack of consistency in their game plan.
- W 117-98 vs San Antonio Spurs - This win provides a glimmer of hope, demonstrating the team's capacity for strong performances when they are focused.
- L 109-98 @ Sacramento Kings - Another loss on the road underscores their need for better consistency.
Cleveland Cavaliers (1-4):
The Cavaliers also endured a challenging run in their last five, showing inconsistency similar to the Suns:
- L 121-112 vs Indiana Pacers – A close loss against the Pacers suggests some defensive lapses that need immediate attention. Evan Mobley needs to dominate the paint to turn this around.
- L 120-119 vs Indiana Pacers – Another close loss to the Pacers shows their inability to secure close games, a crucial element for playoff contention.
- W 126-104 @ Indiana Pacers – This road win highlights their potential to perform well in away games. Consistent execution across all games is what is needed.
- L 129-109 @ Indiana Pacers - A blowout loss demonstrates their inconsistency and susceptibility to strong offensive teams.
- L 114-105 vs Indiana Pacers - The repeated losses to the Pacers highlight a persistent issue that needs to be resolved before this game.
Both teams enter this matchup needing a win to build momentum, making this game a pivotal encounter.
Key Players to Watch
Several key players will be critical to their team's success. However, the injury reports cast a shadow over several stars:
Phoenix Suns:
- Devin Booker: The Suns' offensive engine, his performance will be crucial for their scoring output. He needs to maintain his scoring average and take on more responsibility given the injuries.
- Deandre Ayton: Ayton's presence in the paint will be crucial for rebounding and scoring opportunities. His performance inside will be crucial against the Cavaliers' bigs.
- Mikal Bridges: Bridges is a key two-way player. His defensive prowess and consistent scoring will be essential. He needs to be a leader in both defense and offense.
The Suns will also need contributions from their role players to compensate for the absences of Koby Brea and Nick Richards, who are both listed as day-to-day with arm injuries.
Cleveland Cavaliers:
- Darius Garland: The Cavaliers' playmaking point guard is listed as "Out" due to surgery, meaning the team will have to adapt without its primary ball-handler.
- Donovan Mitchell: Mitchell will be under immense pressure to lead the Cavaliers' offense in Garland's absence. His scoring and playmaking will be crucial for success. He will have to take on an even larger role than usual.
- Evan Mobley: Mobley's defensive presence and inside scoring are pivotal. He'll need to dominate the paint to offset the Suns' potential advantages in the post. He needs to maintain his defensive dominance.
The Cavaliers will also be missing Max Strus (out with a foot fracture) and several key players listed as day-to-day. Their ability to perform as a collective unit will be put to the test.
Injury Report
Injuries will significantly impact the game. Both teams will need to adapt to the absence of some key players:
Phoenix Suns:
- Koby Brea: Day-to-day with a left arm thumb sprain (injury since 2025-07-20). His potential return date is 2025-10-01.
- Nick Richards: Day-to-day with right arm elbow inflammation (injury since 2025-07-03). His potential return date is 2025-10-01.
Cleveland Cavaliers:
- Max Strus: Out with a left leg foot fracture (injury since 2025-08-26). Expected return: 2025-12-01.
- Craig Porter Jr.: Day-to-day with a left leg hamstring injury (injury since 2025-07-20). His potential return date is 2025-10-01.
- Sam Merrill: Day-to-day with a unspecified head/neck strain (injury since 2025-07-03). His potential return date is 2025-10-01.
- Darius Garland: Out due to surgery on his left leg toe (injury since 2025-07-03). Expected return: 2025-11-01.
- Lonzo Ball: Day-to-day with a right arm wrist sprain (injury since 2025-06-28). His potential return date is 2025-10-01.
The absence of key players will significantly impact both team strategies and overall game flow. Expect to see adjustments in lineups and game plans.
Where to Watch: NBA Streams and Broadcasting Information
For those eager to watch this exciting matchup, our guide on NBA streams at /nba-streams offers a variety of options to watch the game live. Remember to always use legitimate streaming services to avoid any legal issues. Check your local listings for official broadcast details.
Prediction
Predicting the outcome is challenging due to the injuries. If the Suns' key players can perform at their best and overcome the absences, they stand a chance to win at home. However, the Cavaliers' offensive firepower, even without Garland and Strus, could be enough to secure a victory. The game's outcome will depend heavily on how well the remaining players perform. This one's a toss-up.
This game will be one not to miss. Remember to check our guide on NBA streams at /nba-streams to find the best way to catch the action. Let's hope for a thrilling game with lots of excitement!