Nuggets, Lakers clash amid tight Western playoff race

The crowded Western Conference seeding battle will get more clarity when the surging Los Angeles Lakers host the Denver Nuggets on Saturday night.

Entering Friday, five teams were within two games of third place, currently occupied by Los Angeles following a four-game winning streak. The Lakers can solidify their hold if they beat Denver and win the season series.

Both have won one game in the series, and the third and final matchup is the only one in Los Angeles, which has its full...