NBA Playoffs: San Antonio Spurs (3) vs. Denver Nuggets (6)

This match up is actually one of the more intriguing of all of the first rounders, as the streaking Nuggets face the defense-first Spurs. Not only is it again a question mark as to how Carmelo Anthony and Allen Iverson will come together in crunch time, but also how much Tim Duncan has in his tank to lead the Spurs down the yellow brick road.

When you look at the positional match ups, it gets even more interesting: Tony Parker and Iverson really exploit their opponents with their speed and tenacity. Marcus Camby vs. Duncan matches one of the best big men in the game against Camby's rugged game where he has shown that when he is healthy, he can really play up to his competition. Lastly, the playoff experience level with George Karl and Gregg Popovich is staggering--this will certainly be a chess game on the court by two masters of the game.

So, where is the breaking point? Well, it comes down to defense versus offense. The Nuggets can play with anyone, and can even keep up with the running game of the Suns with the same depth. The Spurs, on the other hand, gave up a paltry 90.1 ppg, and had an average spread of almost 8 points per game. That spread is what will make the difference in this series--although the Nuggets are almost as hot as the Rockets right now, the Spurs lock down approach and Manu Ginobili's uncanny ability to raise up for the playoffs really gives this team the advantage overall.

Prediction: Spurs in seven. Duncan vs. Camby is just too much for the Nuggets to overcome.

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NBA Playoffs: San Antonio Spurs (3) vs. Denver Nuggets (6)

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