Although the Denver Nuggets were eliminated in the second round, they were still considered the most significant threat in the Western Conference. Rightfully so, Denver operates with a three-time MVP in Nikola Jokic. However, Jamal Murray’s contributions have helped them astoundingly over the years.
Going into next season, Jokic and Murray must maintain health and dominate nightly to reach the first seed. Talent in the West is rising, and several contenders have improved drastically throughout the summer. These two must train and prepare tirelessly to battle for their championship rights.
Conversely, Denver could face difficulty keeping up with a fast-paced conference. Though they have two high-volume stars, their supporting cast diminished. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope joining the Magic cost the Nuggets beyond imagination.
The Denver Nuggets will fall back in a superstar-run Western Conference.
While the Denver Nuggets may be championship-seasoned, they need more depth to compete in the Western Conference. High-end role players like Michael Porter Jr. and Aaron Gordon must jump to all-star status for Denver to earn the first seed.
Agreeing to a multi-year deal with Russell Westbrook was arguably the most prominent offseason move for the Nuggets’ front office. This was a major addition, but Westbrook is a high-energy role player in this stage of his career. Denver will need a deeper roster to survive in a new era of basketball, characterized by more athleticism, increased three-point shooting, and versatile players.
One of Denver’s biggest threats will be the Oklahoma City Thunder. Despite losing in round two, Oklahoma City acquired Alex Caruso and Isaiah Hartenstein from the market. These two are elite in their respective roles. The Thunder, with the forces of Caruso and Hartenstein, are talented and motivated to claim the first seed in back-to-back seasons.
Opposing contenders understand the excellence of the Nuggets’ core four. These stars won a ring strictly on chemistry and consistency. Denver’s record next season will come down to the efforts of Westbrook, Christian Braun, and Julian Strawther. Head coach Mike Malone could see a second championship in three seasons if each takes off on both ends of the floor.
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