DAY TWELVE - After being tested early against lower seeds, San Antonio and Phoenix are up 3-1 in their respective series and both look to close out tonight.

Nuggets at Spurs, 8:00 PM, TNT
Winner: Spurs
Thoughts: After some questions were raised following San Antonio's game one loss, it looks like we may end up seeing a repeat of the 2005 playoffs when the Spurs finished the Nuggets in five games. Iverson and Carmelo Anthony both had brilliant game one performances and while 'Melo has kept up the impressive play, Iverson has struggled especially over the last two games. This relatively young Nuggets team seems to be unraveling and the veteran Spurs seem to be finding their groove. Hell, even Robert Horry is alive and well in the playoffs. And without Iverson on his game, facing the Spurs in San Antonio, I think Denver is done tonight like it was 2005. Spurs win.

Lakers at Suns, 10:30 PM, TNT
Winner: Lakers
Thoughts: I so very much want to pick the Lakers - so I am. Their 113-100 loss in game four isn't exactly the most inspiring platform from which to declare the Lakers victorious in game five, but after seeing them bounce back from their 28 point loss in game two, that doesn't seem so bad. In all honesty, the way Nash (23 assists) and Amare Stoudemire (27 points, 21 boards) played I'm surprised the Lakers didn't lose by more. L.A. held on and actually kept the game fairly close for the most part. I don't think Phoenix will have as great a game as they did in game four, and I fully expect Kobe to come out with a ferociousness that will spur his team on. The Lakers have their backs to the wall, and I think they'll respond with a valiant effort tonight. Lakers win.

* all times Eastern

Jordan's Playoff Picks so far:
23/35 - 66%

Tomorrow's games
Rockets at Jazz
Mavericks at Warriors

NOTE: You will notice a poll added to today's edition, something I'd like to add daily. This way you have an easy way of letting me know where you think I'm wrong. Vote.