Two weeks ago the experts were asking if the Oklahoma City Thunder would make the playoffs. Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook have since returned, and the Thunder have won seven of their last eight. They host Phoenix tonight, and the Suns come in riding a four game losing streak. This looks like a good spot to back the Thunder at home.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Defense - Playing without stars Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant might have been a blessing in disguise for the Thunder. They were forced to play defense in order to remain competitive, and the result is an opponent's scoring average of 94.3 points per game ( best in the NBA).

2. Home Cookin' - The Thunder are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.

3. X-Factor - The Thunder are 8-2-1 ATS in their last 11 vs. Western Conference.

Selection: This is a play on the Oklahoma City Thunder (10*)