The Phoenix Suns are three points back of Oklahoma City for the eighth and final playoff spot in the West, but a home game against Portland might not be an easy spot to try to narrow that gap. The Blazers need the points as well, as they are trying to hold off the Clippers who are just one point behind in a battle for the #4 spot in the West.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Injuries - The Blazers ended a five game losing skid with a win on the road at Utah on Wednesday. They had been banged up with several key players out of the lineup, but with Nicolas Batum expected back tonight, they are getting close to full strength.

2. Road Warriors - Damian Lillard scored 23 points and 12 assists, and LaMarcus Aldridge added 19 in the win over the Jazz last night.

3. X-Factor - The Trail Blazers are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 vs. NBA Pacific.

Selection: This is a play on the Portland Trail Blazers (8*)