The Suns acquired Kurt Thomas in a major trade two years ago in large part to guard superstar Tim Duncan. Therefore, it would be safe to assume that Thomas would be expected to play a larger-than-usual role in this huge Round 2 series.

Not necessarily, the East Valley Tribune is reporting.

?Not necessarily,? coach Mike D?Antoni said. ?I don?t think that?s a given.?

In the mind of the Suns? coach, this series will be a battle of wills, as each team tries to impose its vastly different style of play on the other.

Playing Thomas extensively could be seen as giving in, he hinted.

?We have to impose our will, run and have an up-tempo game,? D?Antoni said.

?On the other hand, if he has a bigger role, then that could lead to more halfcourt, more slowing it down. You have to be careful about that.?

The bottom line: The Suns want the Spurs to match up to them, not the other way around