My first tendency is to fade Eastern Conference clubs when taking on good teams from the Western Conference. But this matchup rates an exception.

Toronto is the premier team in the East right now at 11-2 and playing with substantial confidence after a 17-point victory this past Saturday against the Cavaliers and LeBron James. That was Toronto's fourth win in a row.

The Raptors catch the Suns at the end of a six-game road trip. The Suns have strung together four consecutive victories. That's not as impressive as it sounds, however, as those wins have been against the Celtics, Pistons, 76ers and Pacers - teams with a combined record of 12-39.

Now the Suns are stepping up in class while facing a high fatigue factor as this marks their third road game in four days. The Suns don't have size to fall back on either. They win with quickness, fast-breaks and outstanding guard play.

Toronto has the versatility and outstanding backcourt to match that plus sixth man Louis Williams is off his best game of the season.

The Raptors have matched up to the West covering five of the last six times against the conference. They also have a double revenge motive after losing both games to Phoenix last season.

The Suns finally get to head home to the desert following this game. I'm not expecting them to produce anywhere near an "A" game.