Overview of their 2021-2022 season
Last season, the Denver Nuggets once again proved themselves as competitors in the league after snagging a spot in the NBA Playoffs for the fourth consecutive year. Their efforts last year made them one of only two Western Conference teams to make it to the postseason in the recent four years.
The Nuggets concluded their season run with a record of 48-34, losing to the eventual champions Golden State Warriors in five games in the first round. Even though the team had an early exit, it was still an impressive run, considering that Jamal Murray missed the entire campaign and Michael Porter Jr. only played nine games. Without the help of their second and third best players, season MVP Nikola Jokic still dominated in the league while getting help from the other players like rookie Bones Hyland and shooting guard Will Barton.
What’s new this season?
With Jokic peaking in his career after winning the MVP campaign last season, this season looks bright as we expect the return of Murray and MPJ. Jokic will be handling the main passing responsibilities in the half-court but Murray is back to stir the pot and create space for the big man. Hyland has had an excellent rookie season and can definitely fill the void whenever Murray needs a rest.
Aaron Gordon has also been developing good chemistry with Jokic and the Nuggets. He's expected to be the starting power forward this season, bullying the defenders at the wing. The 27-year-old star dunker is a versatile scorer that can elevate his team’s playing style even more this season.
THE guy
The Joker is in his prime right now and Denver should be able to take advantage of that.
Jokic averaged 27.1 points, 13.8 rebounds, 7.9 assists, and 1.47 steals in his 2021-2022 run. He won MVP for the second time in a row, beating finalists Joel Embiid and Giannis Antetokounompo. The re-signing of his contract in the previous season just shows how Denver will continue to build their offense around the Serbian center.
Sneaky fun guy
Denver was able to acquire Kentavious Caldwell-Pope during the offseason. This was a good addition since the team needs to improve their shooting and on-ball defense, which KCP is known for. KCP will also improve ball movement, much as he did with the Washington Wizards. Moreover, Christian Braun, a first-round draft pick rookie, may also contribute strongly in the shooting department if Coach Michael Malone needs more depth. He’s not a primary creator just yet, but with more playing time, he can leverage his supporting skills and defensive motor.
Vibe check
The Nuggets have been very consistent in the playoffs in recent years and we anticipate that this would continue this year. If Murray and Porter could stay healthy and play at a competitive level again, the Nuggets are sure to be contenders this season with a complete Big Three.
They have the talent, roster depth, and chemistry, however, their performance this year can still rely on the return of their top players. Nonetheless, Jokic’s stats are enough proof that he can carry the team if the injuries continue to plague the team.
The mix of experience and youth speaks good news for the Nuggets as they try to improve on last year’s run. They have a great chance of doing better than most of the teams in the league, and maybe even getting a shot at the Western Conference Finals.
