Scorching Suns clash with Clippers

The Suns and Clippers are currently tied for first place in the Pacific. Phoenix has won nine games in a row, while Los Angeles is on a three-game winning streak.

The road team has won five of seven and 11 of the last 15 meetings in this series, while Phoenix has won four straight after losing the last two contests. The Suns have won three straight at the Clippers.

Phoenix has won nine straight games overall. Reigning MVP Steve Nash scored 19 points and dished out nine assists to lead the Suns over the New York Knicks, 85-81, on Friday at America West Arena.

Raja Bell added 17 points and Shawn Marion had 14 points and 10 rebounds in the win over New York for the Suns. Eddie House recorded 15 points off the bench for Phoenix, which won despite not hitting a shot from the field over the final 6:24 of the game.

The Suns are 4-1 on the road this season. They return home on Sunday to host the New Orleans/Oklahoma City Hornets at America West Arena, before going back on the road for three contests.

LA plays the fourth contest of a five-game homestand. On Wednesday, Elton Brand and Cuttino Mobley both scored 24 points to lead the Clippers to an 84-79 win over the New York Knicks at Staples Center.

Brand pulled down 11 rebounds, while Sam Cassell added 16 points and 11 assists in the win over New York for the Clippers, who battled back to win for their fourth contest in their last five tries. Los Angeles has won seven straight over the Knicks at home.

The Clippers, who will host the Detroit Pistons on Sunday in the finale of the current stand, are 8-1 at home this season.