Suns’ Gortat looks forward to matchup with Duncan

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Two nights after having one of his best games of the season against a formidable front line, Spurs forward Tim Duncan has another challenge tonight in Suns center Marcin Gortat.

Marcin Gortat and Tim DuncanGortat, who is having a career year, averaging 15.9 points and 9.9 rebounds per game for the Suns, is not surprised at Duncan’s play of late, including his 28 point outing against the Memphis Grizzlies.

“That’s Tim Duncan. First of all he’s a great player. Just like other veterans, with each year he’s actually better and better not worse and worse,” Gortat said. “He doesn’t have the same energy he used to have back in the day but he’s dangerous.”

“His jumpshot from outside is way better than it used to be and it’s always going to be a challenge to guard him. It’s fun to play him.”

Fun is not exactly the way Marc Gasol may have described defending Duncan, especially when Duncan was pulling every trick out of the book, but Gortat says he looks forward to these kinds of matchups.

“Oh I’m definitely looking forward to matchups like that, I always like to play against veterans and great post up players,” he said.

Duncan and Gortat will tip off tonight’s game in just under 30 minutes. The Spurs will be looking to pick up yet another home victory and their second straight win, while the Suns will be fighting for a playoffs spot.