The Denver Nuggets and Milwaukee Bucks have been streaking up their respective conference standings and hope to carry some momentum into the All-Star break when they meet Thursday in Milwaukee. The Nuggets are winners of five of their last six after a 117-109 victory over San Antonio at home Tuesday night and they've produced at least 115 points in each of those five wins, although defense down the stretch made the difference against the Spurs.

The Minnesota Timberwolves have enjoyed a memorable three-quarters of a season but are dragging a bit as they enter Thursday's game against the visiting Los Angeles Lakers. Minnesota was 13 games above .500 just 3 1/2 weeks ago but has gone just 4-7 since as it plays its final contest prior to the All-Star break.