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Nash aims to guide Suns to seventh straight win

Dec 5, 2006 - 2:14 PM Sacramento (8-8) at Phoenix (9-6) 9:00 pm EST

PHOENIX (Ticker) - The red-hot Phoenix Suns have found their stride, while the struggling Sacramento Kings hope to regain theirs.

Two-time MVP Steve Nash and the Suns will try to extend their season-high winning streak to seven games Tuesday when they host the Kings.

Shawn Marion recorded 27 points and 14 rebounds and Nash also scored 27 points for Phoenix in Saturday's 122-116 triumph here against the Milwaukee Bucks. Amare Stoudemire netted 22 points in the win.

The Suns began the season just 1-5 but since have captured eight of nine games, including a six-game undefeated mark at home.

Mike Bibby had 19 points and seven assists but Sacramento fell, 92-89, in the final seconds in Monday's heartbreaker to the Orlando Magic. It was the Kings' third straight loss after a three-game winning streak.

Defensive standout Ron Artest could be available after missing the previous two contests with strained lower back. He is averaging 15.5 points against the Suns.

Sacramento and Phoenix split in their season series last campaign.