Suns Host Struggling Pelicans in Western Conference Matchup PHOENIX (Interstat) — The Phoenix Suns, holding firm in the Western Conference playoff picture, host the struggling New Orleans Pelicans on Friday night at Mortgage Matchup Center. The Suns (35-26) enter having won two of their last three, including a 114-103 road victory over the Sacramento Kings on Tuesday. Guard Collin Gillespie has been a key facilitator, averaging 15.3 points and 6.3 assists over his last three games. In the win over Sacramento, he finished with 17 points, six rebounds and nine assists. Phoenix has dominated the season series, winning all three meetings against New Orleans. The most recent was a 123-114 victory in New Orleans on Dec. 27. The Pelicans (19-44) arrive on a five-game losing streak, most recently falling 110-101 to the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday. Forward Trey Murphy has been a bright spot, scoring 21 points with eight rebounds in that loss. Over his last five games, Murphy is averaging 20.6 points. New Orleans’ defense has been a persistent issue, allowing an average of 121.2 points during its current skid. The team will need a significant turnaround to challenge a Suns squad averaging 112.3 points per game. For Phoenix, maintaining focus against a sub-.500 opponent is critical as it navigates a challenging upcoming schedule that features a six-game road trip starting next week. The Pelicans, meanwhile, are looking to build any momentum before returning home to face Washington on Sunday. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. MST.