Timberwolves-Phoenix game preview

Preview: After letting a 12-point lead slip away in the final 2:20 of regulation in Saturday's overtime loss to Houston, the Wolves will try to regroup again. Saturday's loss marked the ninth time the Wolves have lost a game after leading by 10 points or more. The Wolves have only three wins in their past 15 games. The Suns, meanwhile, have won only three of their past 18, with one of the losses coming at home to the Wolves on Nov. 25. The two teams hold two of the worst three records in the Western Conference. The Suns are 4-11 on the road, while the Wolves are 3-10 at home. Both teams have struggled defensively, but the Suns are second-to-last in the league in points allowed (113.0).

Players to watch: Wolves C Karl-Anthony Towns is coming off a 41-point, 15-rebound, five-assist game. But he also had six turnovers. Zach LaVine had 24 points vs. Houston but had eight turnovers. Phoenix guard Eric Bledsoe is one of five players in the league averaging better than 19 points, five assists and five steals per game. G Devin Booker (18.8 ppg) is coming off a 31-point game vs. Oklahoma City.

Injuries: Wolves C Nikola Pekovic (ankle) is out for the season. The Suns report no injuries.