Preview of Minnesota Timberwolves @ Phoenix Suns - 4/1/05
The Phoenix Suns have been without Amare Stoudemire for that past few games, but he is expected to rejoin the lineup tonight against Minnesota. The Suns have continued their winning ways without Amare, but they desparately needed him in the lineup to contain & offset the production of Kevin Garnett, arguably the league's best player. The Suns bench has been playing a lot better the past few games, but they'll need to keep it up throughout the remaining regular season and the playoffs if Phoenix wants to reach the NBA Finals.
The Timberwolves are on a five game winning streak, with their latest victory coming against the fading Los Angeles Lakers last night. Minnesota has been playing much better “team“ ball the last few games, but the return of Sam Cassell to the lineup doesn't hurt either. They are making a strong push for the 8th and final playoff spot.
Keys to the game for the Suns:
- Keep the Timberwolves shooters under control (Szczerbiak, Cassell, Hoiberg)
- Keep Kevin Garnett off the boards
- Run the fast break
Game prediction: I don't think the Timberwolves have enough able bodies to keep up with the fast-paced Suns; they will likely be in the game for a few quarters but Phoenix should outrun them at the finish. I think the Suns could win this game by 15 points.
Almost forgot... Welcome IFlynn and the new Golden State Warriors blog.