Denver Nuggets: Why They Must Be the Favorites to Win the Western Conference

The streak is up to 21.

No, I'm not talking about the overall win streak that the Denver Nuggets put together between February 23 and March 23 that was snapped by the New Orleans Hornets (of all teams). I'm referring to the winning streak the Nuggets have put together at home, which dates back to mid-January.

With two fairly easy home games left on the schedule, it's possible that Denver could finish the season by winning its final 23 home contests. And with the postseason just about upon us, that type of momentum is sure to serve the Nuggets well.

In fact, I'd go as far as to say that because of its recent play, Denver should be considered the team to beat in the Western Conference. Not only is this team on an absolute tear, but it's also set to receive a big boost with the expected return of starting point guard Ty Lawson:

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A trusted source down in Texas says #Nuggets PG @tylawson3 likely to play tonight vs. Mavs. Not expected to start.

— Aaron J. Lopez (@Lopez_Nuggets) April 12, 2013"

With their bevy of reliable players (which now stretches all the way down to surprising French rookie Evan Fournier), the Nuggets also have the depth to attack you several different ways.

Even the San Antonio Spurs couldn't handle Denver's arsenal Wednesday night, with the Nuggets throwing down highlight-reel dunk after highlight-reel dunk while building what would become a 19-point advantage at one point during their tilt.

And while the Nuggets may sit third in the conference and don't have the flashy star power of the Oklahoma City Thunder or the seasoned veteran presence of Tim Duncan, they are on equal ground with both clubs ahead of them in the standings.

What's more, the Nuggets are at least .500 on the season against each and every one of the Western Conference's eight playoff teams this season.

Denver may not be at the top of the conference table, possess multiple superstars or play a good amount of its games on national TV, but make no mistake, this isn't a team to take lightly. It's young, talented and has been nearly impossible to beat since the All-Star break.

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