Denver Post beat writer Bennett Durando periodically opens the Nuggets Mailbag during the season. You can submit your NBA-related questions here.
Playoff Rotation Concerns
What do you think the playoff rotation is going to look like if everyone is healthy?
— Devon K., Denver
Do we have eight players ready for playoff minutes? I’m not sure we even have seven. Peyton Watson’s inconsistency and Russell Westbrook’s decision-making worry me.
— Lucas, Littleton
Let’s dive into this! The upcoming playoffs might require a shift in how the team approaches its rotation. The Nuggets have a few bench players who could provide a significant impact in short bursts by giving energy and hustle.
Player Performance Variability
While there may not be a clear sixth man capable of playing approximately 26.5 minutes per game like Bruce Brown did last postseason, the situation with Westbrook remains complex. His performance can fluctuate greatly, making it crucial for coach Michael Malone to adapt game by game. Westbrook might excel for 35 minutes one night but may only be effective for 18 the next, necessitating a flexible strategy.
Adapting the Lineup
Malone will likely need a fluid approach rather than a rigid eight-man rotation. Depending on the matchup, he could alternate bench players, such as using Julian Strawther for scoring in one game and Zeke Nnaji for defense in another. It’s also vital to assess opponents across different playoff rounds to tailor the strategy accordingly.
Aaron Gordon’s Injury Update
What’s the status of Aaron Gordon’s injury? Is Denver managing his time to ensure he’s ready for the playoffs?
— Devon K., Denver
Gordon’s calf strain may not completely resolve before the playoffs. Malone has indicated this type of soft tissue injury will be a factor for the team going forward. Recent experiences show that Gordon has had to leave games due to calf pain multiple times since his initial injury.
Roster Construction Philosophy
My friends think I’m wrong, but the Nuggets have the best player ever at elevating his teammates, so I’ve got a theory: No max contracts for anyone but Jokic. We should invest in high-quality role players around him while letting him improve the starters and ensure our bench outperforms the competition. Am I onto something?
— Daniel, Sloans Lake
While your approach regarding roster construction is valid, it’s crucial not to overlook the importance of continuity. Constantly cycling through players can lead to instability and an environment where players feel undervalued.
Concerns About Defense
Our offense is top-notch, but our defense is suffering, giving up an average of 117 points per game. If we could just tighten it up, we could be a strong contender for the No. 2 seed. What changes are needed and who should step up?
— Mike, Denver
Key players like Jokic, Murray, and Porter have not been at their defensive best. With Gordon frequently sidelined, the defensive issues have compounded. Improvement in these areas is essential for a deeper playoff run.
Longevity of the Title Window
As we watch the Nuggets, I worry about their championship window. How many years does an elite team have? What happens if their best chance wasn’t when they won? Could injuries derail their successes in the future?
— Matt, Mt. Sunflower, Kan.
Your concerns are valid, particularly with the new collective bargaining agreement making it harder to maintain title contention. However, Jokic’s continuous improvement gives hope for the Nuggets to remain competitive and capitalize on future opportunities.
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