Normally I don't like to step in against the Celtics, especially when they are playing well like they are now having won seven of their last eight games.

But I feel confident doing it here. Chris Paul is expected to play after missing the last 14 games with an injured heel. That could provide an added spark for Phoenix. But I'm fine with the Suns even if Paul doesn't play.

Phoenix still is very good without Paul. The Suns should be up for this matchup having lost, 130-111, to the Mavericks in Dallas two days ago. Phoenix was 7-1 before that loss to Dallas.

The Suns are 10-3 ATS during the last 13 meetings against the Celtics. They have covered six of their past seven times at home versus Boston.

The Celtics are playing their third road game in four days, flying in from Toronto. This also is Boston's seventh game in 11 days. Phoenix is in action for the third time in five days. The Suns had two easy games, though, playing the Rockets and Spurs before losing to the Mavericks. Plus they are home. So their fatigue factor is much less than Boston's.