HoopsVibe

(Sports Network) - The Minnesota Timberwolves try to get back on the winning track this evening when they close a two-game road trip against the Phoenix Suns at America West Arena.

On Thursday, the Timberwolves were walloped 106-86 by Tim Duncan and the San Antonio Spurs. Kevin Garnett had 28 points and 12 rebounds for the Wolves, who have lost two straight and three of four. Sam Cassell finished with 21 points, as Minnesota fell three games back of the idle Sacramento Kings for the overall lead in the Western Conference.

Wally Szczerbiak finished with 14 points, scoring 12 in the fourth quarter, while Latrell Sprewell was held to only five points for Minnesota.

The Timberwolves also saw their lead shrink to just 1 1/2 games over the Spurs for the Midwest Division lead.

Minnesota, which will head home for a pair of games following tonight's tilt, has dropped three of its last four on the road and is 21-12 away from home this season.

The Timberwolves are 12-4 in games played on Friday this season.

Minnesota has beaten the Suns three times already this season, but could be at a disadvantage tonight, as the home team in this series has won 12 of the last 14 meetings. The Wolves have also dropped four of six and eight of their last 11 in the desert.