The set-up: Will LA be able to clinch here? The Nuggets have been down 3-1 in each of their last two series, before then rallying to win three straight and advance. Fatigue is a major factor for both teams and I think that'll be evident as well in the final combined score. The Lakers have now defeated the Nuggets in six of eight head meetings this season overall. Both teams love running their offenses through their big men and that means running half court sets on offense. From purely a "situational" stand point, this one definitely sets up as a lower-scoring affair in my opinion.

The pick: Note as well though that the Nuggets have seen the total go "under" the number in nine of their last 13 after allowing 114 points or more in a SU loss in their previous outing. As mentioned above, fatigue plays a major factor in my reasoning. This number is high for sure.

This is a 10* TOTAL COACH'S CORNER on the UNDER Nuggets/Lakers.