#SunsVsRockets: 5 Things to Watch
1 / 6Before each game, Suns.com previews the action by drawing five key factors from an overall pool of 10: big men, guard play, key matchup, defense, shooting, injuries, styles, momentum, hot/cold hand and motivation. Setting the Stage The last time they saw Houston, the Suns were kicking off a six-game losing streak and looking for their collective comfort zone. What a difference a month-and-a-half makes. Phoenix has the second-best record in the league since Dec. 16 (14-4) and they’re playing their best basketball of the season. The Rockets? They’ve stumbled into inconsistency, losing three of their last five contests despite good health and the addition of forward Josh Smith. In the increasingly difficult Western Conference, tonight’s game presents an entire game’s swing in the standings.