We cruise around the Northwest Division this morning, where Denver sits atop the standings with a 2-1 record. For a closer look at the Northwest Division, click here.

But first some updates on the Sonics opponent tonight, Sacramento

Sacramento (0-3): Check out this preview of tonight’s game against Sacramento from the Sacramento Bee And here’s my story from today on Seattle’s turnover woes.

Also from The Bee, another story on guard Mike Bibby, who has torn ligaments in his thumb and will have to sit the first 10 weeks of the season. Seattle Prep High and University of Washington product Spencer Hawes, who had arthroscopic knee surgery in October, says he’s ready to play.

Portland (0-3): Looks like Steve Blake has usurped Jarrett Jack as the starting point guard for the Blazers. And Channing Frye might also find his way into the starting lineup as coach Nate McMillan makes some changes after his team’s poor start.

Denver (2-1): The Nuggets return to the scene of the crime tonight at Madison Square Garden, taking on the Knicks for the first time since the Dec. 16 brawl between the two teams.

Utah (2-2): An assessment of the Jazz after the team’s .500 start.

Minnesota (0-2): Two old rivals square off in the T-Wolves’ Al Jefferson and Orlando’s Dwight Howard as Minnesota hosts Orlando tonight. Minnesota laments it’s free-throw disparity in a loss against the Knicks.

To close it out we take a trip down memory lane. It’s the 1999 McDonalds All-American Slam Dunk Contest, which includes two Sonics in Nick Collison and Damien Wilkins facing off. Who wins? Take a look.