New York (6-12) at Phoenix (12-5) 10:00 pm EST

PHOENIX (Ticker) - The Phoenix Suns' early season struggles seem to have disappeared.

The Suns try to extend their season-high winning streak to nine games and move into a first-place tie in the Pacific Division on Friday when they host the New York Knicks.

Coming off a 62-win campaign last season, Phoenix looked a little lost without All-Star center Amare Stoudemire, who is not expected back until February because of knee surgery. After losing five of nine to start the season, the Suns are averaging 106.6 points during their winning streak.

Reigning league Most Valuable Player Steve Nash scored 28 points and had 14 assists and Shawn Marion added 27 and 14 rebounds Wednesday to lead Phoenix to a 118-110 triumph over the Golden State Warriors.

Kurt Thomas, whom the Suns acquired from the Knicks for Quentin Richardson and the draft rights to rookie Nate Robinson, is averaging 9.0 points and 8.5 rebounds with Phoenix.

New York has lost three of its last four games and has dropped nine of 12 on the road this season.

In Wednesday's 84-79 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers, Eddy Curry scored 24 points and grabbed 11 rebounds for the Knicks, who failed to hold an 11-point halftime lead and scored just 29 second-half points.

Phoenix, which is one-half game behind the Clippers, has won the last three meetings against New York.