Bulls start homestand with Suns

The Bulls’ latest setback came on Wednesday, as they dropped a 93-80 decision to the Charlotte Bobcats. Luol Deng scored 18 points while Darius Songaila netted 12 for Chicago, which has lost six of its last seven.

The five-game slide is Chicago’s longest losing streak since it started last season with nine straight losses.

Chicago got within eight points at 82-74, but Gerald Wallace’s three-point play moments later stretched the gap to 11 and the Bulls never threatened again.

The Bulls lost the game from the foul line, making only 6-of-16 from the charity stripe, while Charlotte hit on 25-of-31 free throws.

Chicago, which will also host Milwaukee and Seattle on this stand, is 5-7 in its arena this season.

Phoenix, meanwhile, comes in on a winning note after Eddie House poured in 26 points off the bench, while Steve Nash scored 24 and dished out 13 assists as the Suns posted a 110-100 road victory over Charlotte.

Shawn Marion racked up 24 points and 13 rebounds, and Boris Diaw and Kurt Thomas also recorded double-doubles for the Suns, who are now 3-0 on their current five-game road swing.

Diaw compiled 11 points and 12 boards, while Thomas finished with 10 points and 12 rebounds.

Phoenix, which will close its trek in New York on Monday, is 8-4 away from home this season.

The Bulls lost both meetings with the Suns last season, but could have the advantage tonight, as the home team in this series has won eight of the last nine meetings. Phoenix is also just 3-9 in its last 12 visits to the Windy City.