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Wizards look to end losing streak against Shaq-less Suns

Feb 10, 2008 - 3:59 PM Washington (24-25) at Phoenix (35-15) 9:30 pm EST

PHOENIX (Ticker) - The Washington Wizards hope to end a six-game losing skid when they visit the Phoenix Suns - without Shaquille O'Neal - on Sunday.

The Wizards, who have been without Caron Butler for five of the last seven games, are coming off a 111-100 loss at Denver on Friday. Butler is a game-time decision with a left hip injury and so is Antonio Daniels, who sprained his ankle against Denver.

Antawn Jamison led the way with 21 points and eight rebounds in Friday's loss, but the All-Star has shot just 35 percent (27-of-77) in his last four games.

The Suns, who traded Shawn Marion and Marcus Banks for O'Neal on Wednesday, are not expecting their new acquisition to play until later in the week. The 35-year-old center has been out since January 21 with left hip bursitis.

After losing to New Orleans, 132-130, in double overtime on Wednesday, Phoenix bounced back to post a 103-99 victory over Seattle on Friday. The Suns made all 32 of their free throw attempts in the win - one shy of the franchise record.

Amare Stoudemire has recorded three straight double-doubles, and had 33 points and 10 rebounds in Friday's win. The All-Star center had 26 and 20 in the setback to New Orleans.

Phoenix won the first meeting, 122-107, on December 7. The Wizards defeated the Suns in their last visit to Phoenix, 144-139 in overtime last season - behind 54 points from Gilbert Arenas.