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Suns look for 12th consecutive victory vs. Heat

Dec 13, 2006 - 4:17 PM Phoenix (14-6) at Miami (9-11) 7:00 pm EST

MIAMI (Ticker) -- Although they are on a terrific run, the Phoenix Suns eventually would like to achieve the Miami Heat's current status.

The high-powered Suns attempt to finish a five-game road trip with their 12th consecutive victory Wednesday when they face the defending-champion Heat.

Averaging a league-leading 111.8 points this season, Phoenix has shot 63 percent (149-of-235) in the first quarter during the streak. The Suns top the NBA in shooting percentage (49.4) and are second in three-point percentage (39.4).

Phoenix can sweep a five-game trip for the first time since April 6-13, 1998 with a win over the Heat as well as set the second-longest winning stretch in franchise history. The Suns won 14 straight from December 1-30, 1992.

Amare Stoudemire scored 30 points, Shawn Marion added 19 with 11 rebounds and two-time MVP Steve Nash had 18 points and 15 assists for the Suns in Monday's 103-98 triumph over the Orlando Magic.

Despite making progress after losing eight of its first 12 contests, Miami has had to deal with medical issues to key players.

In addition to losing Shaquille O'Neal, who has been sidelined with a knee injury since November 12, reigning Finals MVP Dwyane Wade is out after having two wisdom teeth pulled. He is averaging 28.0 points to rank among the league's best.

Wade scored 37 points to lead the team for a franchise-record 17th consecutive game in Monday's 99-77 triumph over the Toronto Raptors.

Miami has won four of the past five home meetings against Phoenix and swept the Suns in both encounters last season.