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Preview: Wolves vs. Phoenix

Preview: The Wolves will be down one starter and perhaps two, if the NBA rules against Kevin Garnett, and are riding a two-game losing streak. All they have to do is play a Suns team that has won 12 in a row. How hot is Phoenix? This is the team's second such streak this season; they won 15 in a row from Nov. 20 through Dec. 19. That's two of the longest winning streaks ever for the franchise, and they both came in the first 39 games of this season.

Last update: January 20, 2007 - 11:08 PM

Players to watch: Suns forward Shawn Marion is the only NBA player ranked in the top 35 in points, rebounds, field-goal percentage, steals, blocks, double-doubles and minutes played. Suns guard Steve Nash is on pace to become the first NBA player to average at least 19 points and 11 assists since Magic Johnson and Kevin Johnson in 1989-90.

Numbers: The Suns have won five of the past six meetings between the two teams. The Suns have won 30 of their past 33 games after starting the season 1-5. Their point differential (plus-8.5) is best in the NBA, and the team has won 17 of 18 games at home this season.

Injuries: For the Wolves, Marko Jaric (thumb) is expected to play after missing five games. For the Suns, Kurt Thomas (elbow) is out.

KENT YOUNGBLOOD