The San Francisco arena serves as an unsettling battleground for the Golden State Warriors as they prepare to face off against the Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday night, both teams vying fiercely for playoff berths.

With a current record of 40-34, the Warriors find themselves on a winning streak of four games, striving to hold off the surging Houston Rockets for the last play-in spot in the Western Conference while aiming to climb higher in the rankings.

Despite their recent road victories, where they boast an impressive 22-15 record, the Warriors have struggled on their home court, losing five of their last seven games and desperately needing a win to even out their home record to 18-19.

Coach Steve Kerr remarked on the perplexing shift in fortunes, contrasting it with their previous season’s dominance at home. Nonetheless, he expressed satisfaction with the team’s current form.

Their latest triumph, a 117-113 win against the San Antonio Spurs, showcased a vintage performance from Draymond Green, who excelled in various facets of the game, particularly against top shot-blocker Victor Wembanyama.

As they gear up to face the Mavericks, against whom they’ve faced defeats in previous encounters this season, the Warriors pin their hopes on Green’s impact, especially considering his absence in prior matchups.

Meanwhile, the Mavericks arrive with a record of 45-29, having secured seven consecutive wins, including a successful road trip and a recent victory against the Houston Rockets.

With a challenging schedule ahead, including a rematch against the Warriors, the Mavericks express longing for home after an extended road trip, characterized by impressive performances from star player Luka Doncic.

As they prepare to take on the Warriors before returning home, the Mavericks reflect on their relentless journey, eagerly anticipating the comforts of familiar territory after a prolonged spell on the road.