The Denver Nuggets are in the playoffs for the NINTH straight year, matching a franchise record. Head coach George Karl has has seen his team earn at least a .500 record for the 20th straight season but neither Karl, nor this Denver franchise, has had much success in the postseason. However, that’s a story for next week. Tonight, the Nuggets visit Minnesota, in control of their own destiny for the No. 6 seed in the Western Conference. The Nuggets hold a one-game lead over the Dallas Mavericks with one to play and a win (or a Dallas loss in Atlanta) would get them a first round meeting with the Lakers, rather than the Thunder. With LA’s problems this year (plus the suspension of Metta World Peace), a first round matchup with the Lakers, HAS to be preferable. Denver has won three straight and 10 of 14, plus has won 18 of its last 20 meetings with Minnesota. Meanwhile, the T-wolves are in a complete “free fall,” having lost 12 of their last 13 (4-9 ATS), including blowing a 21-point lead to the Warriors (who are ‘tanking’ to keep their first round draft pick) in their last contest. Minnesota hasn’t played since last Sunday (Mavs are in a similar spot) and just why would this team put up much of an effort here? Take the Nuggets.

Good luck...Larry