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Nash, Suns look to build momentum against Timberwolves

Jan 18, 2008 - 3:06 PM Minnesota (5-32) at Phoenix (27-12) 9:00 pm EST

PHOENIX (Ticker) - Steve Nash and the Phoenix Suns look to build on their momentum when they host the lowly Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday.

With Thursday's key 106-98 victory at the Los Angeles Lakers, Phoenix now holds the Western Conference's best record. The Suns have alternated wins and losses for the last four games but are now 1/2 game ahead of the Lakers (26-12) for first place in the Pacific Division.

In his three games since returning from the flu, Nash has averaged 20.7 points and 13.3 assists - including a season-high 20 in Thursday's win.

The win also helped the Suns avoid back-to-back losses for the first time since December 8-10.

Meanwhile, the Timberwolves have lost three straight games and are just 1-18 on the road this season - and have dropped 14 straight.

However, Minnesota did record a rare 100-93 victory over Phoenix on December 8 as they were led by Al Jefferson's 32 points and 20 rebounds.

Jefferson is averaging 20.2 points and 11.8 rebounds this season, recording 27 double-doubles.