Suns’ Bell Is Out With Calf Injury

The Western Conference finals weren’t expected to be physical, but each team could be without a key starter tonight in Game 2.

Guard Raja Bell won’t be suiting up for the Phoenix Suns because of a strained left calf. The Suns’ top defender and fourth-leading scorer in the playoffs sustained a non-contact injury after taking a fourth-quarter shot in Game 1. He later said the pop in his leg felt as if a fan had thrown something at him.

Forward Josh Howard is slightly more likely to play for the Dallas Mavericks after leaving Game 1 in the first quarter with a bone bruise in his right ankle. Howard is the Mavericks’ third-leading scorer in the playoffs.

The Suns, who used only three reserves in their 121-118 victory Wednesday, will rely on a committee of players to replace Bell. Leandro Barbosa will start, although James Jones and Eddie House will also get more minutes in Bell’s absence.

“This is the most fun time of your career, and for him not to participate, that’s bad,” Suns Coach Mike D’Antoni said Thursday of Bell. “We’d love to have him but can’t worry about it. It’s a great opportunity for LB and Eddie and James to step up.”

-- Mike Bresnahan