Warriors Catch Break as Suns Starter Ruled Out for Play-In Game

Phoenix will be without center Mark Williams due to foot soreness.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 12:24am

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An abstract painting featuring sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in bright colors, representing the players and court of a basketball game in a cubist, deconstructed style.An abstract, cubist-inspired illustration captures the intensity and high stakes of the Suns-Warriors play-in game, with the players' forms fractured into dynamic geometric shapes.Phoenix Today

The Phoenix Suns will be without starting center Mark Williams for their play-in game against the Golden State Warriors on Friday. Williams has been ruled out due to foot soreness, giving the Warriors a potential advantage heading into the crucial matchup.

Why it matters

The Suns and Warriors are both fighting for a spot in the NBA playoffs, so the availability of key players could be a deciding factor in the outcome of the play-in game. Williams' absence is a significant blow to the Suns' frontcourt depth and interior defense.

The details

In addition to Williams being ruled out, Suns players Grayson Allen and Kristaps Porzingis are still listed as questionable with ankle soreness. Quinten Post remains out with a foot injury, but all other players who haven't been ruled out for the season are available for both teams.

  • The play-in game between the Suns and Warriors is scheduled for Friday, April 18, 2026.

The players

Mark Williams

The Phoenix Suns' starting center who has been ruled out of the play-in game due to foot soreness.

Grayson Allen

A Suns player who is questionable for the play-in game with ankle soreness.

Kristaps Porzingis

A Suns player who is questionable for the play-in game with ankle soreness.

Quinten Post

A Suns player who remains out with a foot injury.

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What’s next

The winner of the Suns-Warriors play-in game will advance to the first round of the NBA playoffs.

The takeaway

The absence of Suns center Mark Williams is a significant blow to their chances in the crucial play-in game against the Warriors, potentially giving Golden State an edge as both teams fight for a playoff spot.