The key to success to lead the euphoria of victory lingers in the air at Ball Arena, the remnants of champagne celebration barely wiped away. Now, as the Denver Nuggets gear up for their triumphant victory parade, a burning question arises: Can they replicate their success and reclaim the grand stage?
Undoubtedly, the team plans to revel in their franchise’s inaugural title for days on end. However, Nuggets coach Michael Malone emphatically declared in his on-court postgame interview following the series-clinching 94-89 triumph against the Miami Heat, that one NBA championship in Denver is simply not enough.
“Newsflash for everyone out there,” he proclaimed. “We’re not content with just one. We hunger for more. We crave more.”
Yet, let’s face the daunting reality.
Over the past five seasons, we have witnessed five different champions crowned, with the Golden State Warriors being the last team to achieve back-to-back titles in 2017 and 2018. Although the Western Conference has dominated with 17 out of the last 25 NBA championships, only seven franchises have successfully defended their crowns.
But don’t dismiss the Nuggets just yet.
With champagne still glistening on their skin, several players pledged not to rest on their laurels as they dive headfirst into the 2023-24 season, determined to avoid a championship hangover.
“When we win, I intend to replicate the same dedication and effort that got us to this pinnacle,” declared forward Aaron Gordon. “While I celebrate, I will continue to work smarter, harder, and more efficiently.”
The coaching staff is ready to roll up their sleeves as well, following the revelry, of course. They plan to embark on a critical self-evaluation of the recently concluded campaign, unearthing weaknesses and blind spots, and striving to improve and refine their strategies.
“For eight years, both myself and the coaching staff have always challenged ourselves to look in the mirror and grow,” Malone admitted. “After each season, we take a step back and genuinely analyze our performance. It would be hypocritical to demand our players to become better while we, as coaches, don’t strive to become better ourselves.”
Malone vividly recalled a pivotal moment when he and Wes Unseld Jr. closely examined the team’s defense, ultimately realizing the need to simplify their approach. Such introspection and commitment to continuous improvement will be the driving force behind the Nuggets’ pursuit of even greater heights in the upcoming season.
Let’s delve into some key strategies the Denver Nuggets can employ to maximize their chances of a return trip to the NBA Finals:
1. Nuggets’ Key to Success
While the Nuggets’ explosive offense frequently grabs the headlines, it was their tenacious defense that paved the way to their championship victory. Coach Malone’s relentless emphasis on focus and effort on the defensive end proved instrumental. During the playoffs, Denver ranked first in offensive rating (118.2) and an impressive fourth in defensive rating (110.2).
Notably, despite finishing the regular season with a modest No. 15 defensive ranking, the Nuggets held their opponents to a mere 100 points per 100 possessions over the last three games of the NBA Finals—the lowest defensive output by the team throughout the entire season.
This performance showcased their ability to elevate their defensive prowess on the grandest stage, reinforcing the need for Malone to push his players to maintain their defensive intensity if they aim to contend for another title.
2. Nuggets’ Foundation Secured
Nuggets wisely built their team around a core group of immersed defenders, skillfully acquiring players like Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Bruce Brown, and Christian Braun through trades, free agency, and the Draft. These formidable guards exhibited their defensive prowess on the wings, contributing significantly to the team’s success.
Brown, in particular, has expressed a desire to return to Denver, eagerly embracing the possibility. It is crucial for the Nuggets to secure both his and veteran Jeff Green’s return to maintain their defensive stability and depth.
Reflecting on Brown’s performance, Aaron Gordon jokingly remarked, “He’s going to get paid, that’s for sure. My man is about to secure the bag.” Indeed, Brown proved his worth, lighting up Miami with 21 points off the bench, including an impressive 11-point surge in the pivotal fourth quarter of Game 4.
With Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, Michael Porter Jr., Caldwell-Pope, and Gordon leading the charge, retaining the core group ensures the Nuggets maintain a formidable roster capable of making waves in the league.
3. Rebirth of Power
Jamal Murray’s return from an ACL tear and Michael Porter Jr.’s recovery from persistent back injuries have been significant hurdles for the Nuggets. Murray missed the entire previous season, while Porter played in only nine games.
Now that they are on the path to full health, both players are set to intensify their offseason training, emerging stronger and better prepared for the challenges that lie ahead in 2023-24.
Murray confessed to occasional hesitation due to his injury, particularly in rebounding situations, but emphasized his growth in overcoming those mental barriers. He also lauded the resilience of his teammate, Michael Porter Jr., who has persevered through numerous injuries, demonstrating a complete commitment to team play and an expanded skill set.
As Murray noted, the team’s growth is evident and their potential for success is boundless. Moreover, Porter’s shooting struggles in the NBA Finals may actually serve as a blessing in disguise, forcing him to contribute in other aspects of the game.
It is crucial to remember that Porter is a mere 24 years old, with ample opportunity to regain his lost athleticism due to back injuries. With his continued development, combined with an enhanced understanding of the game, the Nuggets are poised to sizzle once again in the upcoming season
Wrap-up
As the champagne dries, the Denver Nuggets stand at the crossroads of greatness. Armed with a hunger for more titles, an unwavering commitment to defensive excellence, and a cohesive core unit, they embark on a journey of redemption. The 2023-24 season promises to be a captivating chapter in the Nuggets’ story, as they strive to etch their names once again in the annals of NBA history.
