AND THE DENVER NUGGETS Perhaps the reports of the Nuggets' demise were greatly exaggerated, and perhaps all they needed was a healthy, playoff version of Jamal Murray. Perhaps. Denver is one game away from advancing to the second round after a 131-115 Game 5 win over the Clippers.

The Boston Celtics, New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers are all on the verge of a second round that appears to be taking shape quickly in the Eastern Conference.

Boston beat Orlando 120-89 in Game 5 of their first-round playoff series on Tuesday to advance to the Eastern Conference semifinals.