Phoenix tries to remain hot at home

The Suns have won eight in a row at America West Arena and will try and get back on the winning track on Monday in front of their home crowd. On Saturday, Elton Brand led a balanced Los Angeles attack with 27 points, 13 rebounds and six assists, as the Clippers beat the injury-riddled Suns, 101-91, in a Pacific Division battle at the Staples Center.

Shawn Marion poured in 20 points in the loss to the Clippers for Phoenix, which lost for the first time since November 19th at San Antonio. Suns guard Leandro Barbosa, in just his second game back from a sprained medial collateral ligament in his left knee, reinjured the knee during the fourth quarter and was helped to the locker room. Forward James Jones sprained his right ankle in the first half.

Reigning MVP Steve Nash added 16 points and 11 assists in Saturday’s loss for the Suns, while Kurt Thomas totaled 13 points and 17 rebounds.

Jones is doubtful for Monday’s game, while Barbosa is sidelined indefinitely.

The Suns are 9-4 at home this season. After Monday’s game, the Suns will embark on a three-game road trip which will consist of games against Dallas, the Hornets and Memphis.

Marion leads the Suns in scoring (19.6 ppg) and rebounding (11.4 rpg). The All-Star forward has scored in double-digits in all 19 of Phoenix’ games and has registered 14 double-doubles.

Phoenix has surrendered more than 100 points in two of its last three games. The Suns are 2-5 when they allow their opponent to score at least 100 points this season.