The Denver Nuggets continue to defy logic by playing like a great team without budding stars in Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. Much of this, of course, is due to the absolute brilliance of Nikola Jokic. The big man may very well be on his way to a second consecutive MVP award by leading the Nuggets into the playoffs.
Denver Nuggets – Contenders or Pretenders?
Current Standings
Denver is sixth in the Western Conference with a very impressive record of winning nearly 60 percent of their games. This, of course, is impressive due to the injuries they’ve sustained and their “next man up” mentality. They’ve not assured a direct spot in the playoffs just yet, as the up-and-coming Minnesota Timberwolves are hungry to avoid the play-in tournament, but all signs point to Denver remaining safe.
They’re close to the Utah Jazz and Dallas Mavericks ahead of them as well.
Strengths
The biggest strength on this roster is having Jokic. The reigning MVP is having another outstanding season. Not only can he take over a game with his own scoring, but Jokic constantly creates opportunities for his teammates. This Nuggets squad plays with a lot of grit and players are stepping up constantly, but a lot of this is because Jokic can take total control of the offense. This season Jokic is averaging about 26 points, 14 rebounds, and eight assists per game. These are jaw-dropping numbers.
Denver is 10th in the league in points per game. They’re also third in field-goal percentage and 14th in three-point percentage. Lastly, they’re third in assists averaging almost 28 per game. With Jokic, this team can get buckets against anyone.
Weaknesses
The main weakness for Denver, again because of their injury situation, is the lack of star power around Jokic. Jokic will do his thing, naturally, but if the other players struggle then it can be a quick one-and-done for Denver in the playoffs.
Other scoring threats include Aaron Gordon, Will Barton, and Monte Morris. Rookie Bones Hyland has stepped up his play recently as well. These players are all very solid, there’s no doubt about that. Without discrediting their merits, however, it’s unlikely one can erupt for 25-30 points should Jokic struggle in a game. This will create issues versus the Western Conference elite.
Denver Nuggets X-Factor
It’s quite simple – the Nuggets will go as far as Jokic’s supporting cast can take them. At this point, it’s unlikely that Porter Jr. and Murray return to the fray. If they do, Denver will already have to be in the midst of a deep playoff run.
Jokic will surely score upwards of 20 points, dominate the boards, and find his teammates. His supporting cast, however, will have to be making their open shots as well as creating their own while Jokic sits.
Gordon, Barton, Morris, Hyland, and one of Jeff Green, DeMarcus Cousins, and Bryn Forbes need to constantly be scoring in double-digits.
The Final Verdict for the Denver Nuggets
Denver is a pretender when it comes to contending for the 2022 NBA championship. Jokic is a once-in-a-generation talent and, when healthy, this Nuggets team is built to win championships. Health has not been in their favor, however, so they are not contenders for the championship this season.
Main Image: Embed from Getty Images
