DENVER – The Denver Nuggets, despite a roster repeatedly ravaged by injury, find themselves at 35-20 at the All-Star break, a record that belies the constant strain on a team attempting to repeat as champions. The Nuggets have navigated a stretch where three-time MVP Nikola Jokić missed four weeks and where key contributors Aaron Gordon, Christian Braun, and Cam Johnson have each spent significant time sidelined.
The resilience has been remarkable, punctuated by inspiring road victories at Boston and Philadelphia, and a league-leading 20 road wins. Yet, a troubling inconsistency plagues the Nuggets – a failure to consistently dominate on their home court, evidenced by losses to the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Los Angeles Lakers. This dichotomy raises serious questions about their championship viability.
Through 55 games, Denver has demonstrably raised its floor, but the ceiling appears stubbornly low. The team currently ranks 24th in the NBA in overall defensive rating and a dismal 29th in clutch performance, struggling to generate turnovers. This defensive deficiency is particularly concerning given the team’s offensive prowess, led by Jokić and Jamal Murray.
“He’s amazing,” Aaron Gordon said of playing alongside Jokić, in a September interview. “To get to play around one of the best players, if not the best player of all-time… I think we have a great understanding with each other on and off the basketball floor. You guys are going to see that flourish.” However, even Jokić has shown vulnerability since his return, averaging 4.4 turnovers per game over his last three contests.
The Nuggets’ success hinges on the health and performance of several key players. Gordon, described as the “glue” that binds the Nuggets dynasty, is crucial for his defensive versatility, capable of guarding both forwards and centers. His availability, however, remains a constant concern due to a history of calf and hamstring issues. According to a report from the Denver Post, Gordon is feeling “like I’m the best I ever have been (at) basketball.”
Peyton Watson’s development is as well vital. His length and athleticism are needed on the perimeter to improve the team’s three-point defense. Christian Braun, a key contributor to the 2023 championship run, needs to regain his defensive form and trust in his ankle after an early-season injury. Bruce Brown, known for his tenacious defense, and Spencer Jones, providing energy and effort, are also expected to play significant roles.
The Nuggets are reportedly slow-playing the conversion of Jones from a two-way to a standard contract, a process complicated by a recent concussion. Even as Jones’ impact may not be nightly, his ability to develop crucial plays – steals, for example – could prove pivotal in a playoff series.
First-year coach David Adelman, lauded for his offensive acumen, faces the challenge of instilling a defensive mindset. The Nuggets were criticized for their defensive lapses last season, prompting then-coach Michael Malone to deliver a scathing critique after a loss at Portland. Those issues have not been resolved.
The team’s fate, rests on the shoulders of its core players. Jokić’s offensive dominance is undeniable, and Murray has found consistency. But to contend for another title, the Nuggets must elevate their defensive intensity and commitment, mirroring the effort they displayed during Jokić’s absence.
