Tough road

Last night's loss at Phoenix is tough. Simply put, the Sun were outplayed in the second half. Let's not get this twisted: the Mercury are a good team despite their record.

After starting 0-4, they have won three of their last four, including a wins over Detroit and Minnesota, who comes to town Thursday. Phoenix is a young team with new faces still trying to adjust to each other. I expect them to see the playoffs this year in a very tough Western Conference.

Tonight's game against Los Angeles will be a bigger test on several fronts. First, it is the second game in two nights. But the Sparks' front line, especially Lisa Leslie and Chamique Holdsclaw, will test the Sun. A big defensive game from Margo Dydek is going to be needed.

-Joe