Phoenix Suns News, Suns Scores, Game Recaps & Commentary

NBA News: Celtics Break Losing Streak, Pat Riley Returning

Phoenix Suns News:

• Steve Nash still out with shoulder inflammation. Don't expect to see Steve return to the court until the middle of next week - at the earliest.
• As if losing Nash wasn't bad enough, the Suns are now without their 2nd playmaker, Boris Diaw, who's got back spasms right now.
• Some good news... Kurt Thomas has returned to practice, so he should start seeing some minutes after the All-Star break. His inside presence, defense, and overall basketball IQ will be greatly utilized on the court as Phoenix prepares for a long, healthy playoff run.
• The Suns are on a streak right now... it's just not the type we'd all prefer.  Phoenix has lost it's last 2 games without Nash (the last w/out Diaw), and are now 3-3 in the month of February; this after a 15-1 January record and 13-2 December record.
• Tonight's game - The Suns face a tough challenge tonight against the Seattle Supersonics, who have played Phoenix very well this year (and last). Their games have been some of the best in the NBA this year.  Late in the 1st quarter, the Suns are down 22-12.

NBA News:

• The Boston Celtics broke a franchise worst 18 game losing streak tonight against the Milwaukee Bucks. Led by Paul Pierce's 32 points & Gerald Green's 21, Boston handled the Bucks easily enroute to a 117-97 victory.
• Pat Riley returning to Heat bench after All-Star break. After having two surgeries, it appears Riley is ready to take over the coaching duties once again... The timing couldn't be better - Miami is playing well right now w/ Shaq back in the lineup and w/ most of the team healthy (& winning).
• More All-Star replacements... Jason Kidd is the latest player that will miss the game on Sunday. Joe Johnson was appointed by David Stern as Kidd's replacement.  Johnson is excelling this year in Atlanta, despite the team's poor record.
• With the trade deadline rapidly approaching, rumors are flying around w/ some of the top players in the NBA's names on them.  The Lakers are reportedly pursuing a trade for Jason Kidd, while the situation in Clipperland just continues to boggle most fans; coach Dunleavy and Corey Maggette butted heads last week (Maggette missed 2 games). I can't imagine the team wants to keep this situation throughout the season... they're already struggling significantlly, so making a trade could save their season.  Still no word on Kevin Garnett - it appears he'll stay in Minnesota and they'll continue to suck.  The Knicks could be pursuing the Cavs Drew Gooden (why?) - they're willing to part w/ just about everyone on the team except for Eddy Curry.