Prediction: Nuggets in 6

If not for the Miami Heat 27-game winning streak, the Denver Nuggets would have been the story of the season with their 15-game winning streak. Even more impressive, the Nuggets have lost only four home games this season, which tops the NBA. The Nuggets are led by point guard Ty Lawson, who averages 16.7 points and 6.9 assists per game. Denver is a perennial force in the Western Conference, particularly because it’s first in the NBA in points per game (106.1), second in rebounds (45.1) and third in assists per game with 24.3. The series should be fast-paced and up-tempo because both teams like to run the ball. The Golden State Warriors have a legitimate offensive threat in guard Stephen Curry, who recently broke the single-season record for most 3-pointers made in a season. He also shoots 66.7 percent from beyond the arc, which is top in the league. The Warriors are making their first playoff appearance since 2007 and have a tough task of opening at Denver where they haven’t won all year. Home-court advantage will help the Nuggets make a deep run, not only in this opening series, but in the playoffs as well.