Memphis hosts struggling Suns

Earlier this season, Phoenix defeated the Grizzlies, 96-88, on November 7, 2003 at America West Arena.

Just before Thursday’s trade deadline, the Suns acquired centers Keon Clark and Ben Handlogten from Utah for forward Tom Gugliotta, two conditional first- round draft picks, a 2005 second-round draft pick and an undisclosed sum of cash.

Phoenix got its post-All-Star slate off on a losing note on Tuesday with a 110-95 setback to the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Target Center. Amare Stoudemire paced the Suns with 29 points, as Phoenix lost its 12th game in its last 14 tries.

Joe Johnson contributed 25 points, while Shawn Marion added 18 points and 11 rebounds in the loss for the Suns.

Phoenix, which is 3-8 in Friday games this season, is 2-21 when it allows at least 100 points this season.

The Suns, who have lost five straight on the road, are a dismal 6-23 as the visitor this season.

The Grizzlies come into tonight’s contest on a two-game winning streak. On Tuesday, Memphis recorded an impressive 109-92 victory over the Dallas Mavericks at The Pyramid. Memphis’ Hubie Brown picked up his 400th win as an NBA coach.

James Posey finished with 19 points and seven rebounds to lead the Grizzlies to the win. Gasol posted 17 points while Jason Williams added 11 points and eight assists in the win. The Grizzlies equaled their franchise high for home victories with 20.

Grizzlies guard Mike Miller left Tuesday’s contest in the third quarter with back spasms. Miller, who has struggled with back spasms for a while, is expected to miss tonight’s game.

Memphis is 19-1 when it scores at least 100 points this season.

The Grizzlies, who are nine games over .500 for the first time in franchise history and have won four straight at home, are 20-7 as the host this season.

Phoenix has won three straight and five of the last six contests with the Grizzlies. Phoenix has won four of five and 10 of its last 12 at the Grizzlies.