In a demonstration of preseason intensity, the Denver Nuggets faced off against the Phoenix Suns, narrowly falling 118-114. This game, though not counted in the regular season standings, offered valuable insights and raised several questions on both the Nuggets' strategy and their player dynamics as they gear up for the season ahead.
A Test of Depth and Resilience
Denver's head coach, Michael Malone, utilized the game to push the boundaries of his team's endurance and chemistry. In a somewhat unorthodox move for a preseason game, Malone played his starting unit for the entire third quarter, explaining, "Played that starting unit the whole third quarter to try to push their envelope a little bit." His approach reflects an old-school mentality rarely seen in today’s NBA preseason, where player preservation often takes precedence.
Malone elaborated on his rationale, suggesting that the current NBA climate has contributed to a softer conditioning routine. "That was probably a little bit hard on some of those guys," Malone admitted. "In practice, I think we can get up and down more. I think so often as coaches and modern-day NBA, the league has gotten so soft. Everybody's afraid to condition and run. Well, we have to." His comments suggest a commitment to ensuring the Nuggets are one of the best-conditioned teams in the league.
Adjustments in the Face of Absences
An unfortunate turn in the game was the absence of Jamal Murray in the second half due to a knee issue. As the Nuggets’ starting guard watched from the sidelines, Malone had to improvise, turning to Christian Braun and Julian Swather to make up for Murray’s missing presence. These kinds of adjustments are baptism rites in the NBA, asking younger players to step up when seasoned ones fall away, even if momentarily.
This trial by fire is necessary, as the regular season demands depth and versatility. NBA teams must be prepared to deal with injuries and unexpected roster changes. Malone’s willingness to give Braun and Swather valuable minutes speaks to his strategic foresight and trust in his bench.
Learning from the Past
The shadow of last year's playoff series loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves still lingers over the Nuggets. After being up 3-2, the Nuggets couldn’t seal the series, a lost opportunity haunting the team’s offseason. Beyond on-court adjustments and conditioning, such memories serve as a motivational undercurrent driving the team’s preseason and beyond.
Additionally, the team has had to adjust to some offseason departures, notably that of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who moved to the Orlando Magic. Moves like these inevitably shake up team dynamics, but they also open up opportunities for other players to step up and fill the void left behind. Transitioning through these changes will be crucial for the Nuggets if they aim to surpass last year’s performance.
Conditioning and Commitment
On the topic of conditioning, Michael Porter Jr. echoed Malone's sentiments, tying personal growth to physical endurance on the court. "The better conditioned you are, the most opportunities will find you because you're just always moving," Porter remarked, highlighting his intention to be an omnipresent force on the court. "That's a big goal for me this year," he added, indicating that personal fitness will be a focus in his development and contribution to the team.
The Nuggets’ approach as the regular season looms is one of relentless preparation and adaptation. Each preseason game is more than just a warm-up; it's a chance to recalibrate strategies, test new player combinations, and instill a mindset of endurance and adaptability.
As the Nuggets inch closer to the regular season, they carry with them lessons from past losses, internal changes, and an unwavering commitment to staying at the top of their physical and strategic game. For Denver’s fans, these moments of trial in the preseason carry the quiet potential of triumphs yet to unfold. Expectation rides high with the hope that each play fuels the burning desire to not only balance last year’s shortfalls but to exceed them with vigor and purpose.