NBA Saturday: Nuggets-Rockets, Hawks-Spurs highlight schedule

• Who belongs in the NBA MVP conversation?

• The Pistons’ defining summer has already begun

Duncan started off slow, scoring just four points in the first quarter, but came back in to the game midway through the second quarter and scored 16 points in the final 5 1/2 minutes of the half. Duncan’s tear continued in the second half as he finished the game with 31 points, 14 rebounds, four blocks and three assists. Leonard’s all-around improvement continued as well as he added 23 points, six rebounds and five assists.

• Who belongs in the NBA MVP conversation?

Winding down the season with the top seed in the Eastern Conference secured, the Heat host the Sixers in South Beach with what will presumably be a shorthanded crew.

In a must-win, playoff atmosphere, James and Wade would likely be ready to suit up and ball out, but the past few games have given Miami’s stars a welcomed opportunity to get some rest before the end of the season. The Heat locked up the best record in the East a while ago, rendering these final games relatively unimportant.

The game is scheduled to tip off at 9 p.m. ET. Television coverage in Denver can be viewed on Altitude TV and in Houston on CSN Houston.

• Who belongs in the NBA MVP conversation?