Suns Hope to Forge Winning Streak as Grizzlies Return Sunday

Here's to hoping Shannon Sharpe doesn't find himself in Phoenix, at least for the sake of the Memphis Grizzlies.

If you missed what transpired in Memphis' most recent outing (a 122-121 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers:

Shannon Sharpe wanted all of the smoke https://t.co/oTkrbiH5cS
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) January 21, 2023

Prior to that loss on Friday, the Grizzlies had won 11 consecutive games. The Phoenix Suns hope to give Memphis their second consecutive loss when they play host later today, though it won't exactly be easy.

Deandre Ayton fell victim to illness prior to Phoenix's win over the Indiana Pacers on Saturday and didn't play. He and Cam Johnson (knee management) could potentially return tonight for the second of a back-to-back in the Valley.

Names such as Devin Booker, Chris Paul, Landry Shamet and Cam Payne are likely to be out again.

Memphis strolls into Phoenix with a 31-14 record, trailing only the Denver Nuggets in the Western Conference Standings.

The Grizzlies get it done in all areas of the court, ranking top five in team categories such as points (117.6 per game), rebounds (49.3 per game) and blocks (6.2 per game).

Ja Morant (27.2) and Desmond Bane (21.6) are the main sources of scoring for Memphis, though four other players in the lineup average at least ten points per night. As a team, they only shoot 35% from three-point land.

A win against the Grizzlies would level the season series at 2-2, and Phoenix might need another superhero effort from Josh Okogie, who poured in 24 points, ten rebounds, four assists and four blocks in the win over Indiana.

Mikal Bridges has also held his fair share of responsibility, scoring 20+ in four straight games.

Opening tip will be a few minutes after 6:00 pm MST.