When you talk about the players pushing the Denver Nuggets forward this season, one can’t overlook Nikola Jokic. Standing at 7-feet tall and weighing in at 253 pounds, he’s a mountain of a man. He’s no ordinary mountain, though—he’s a Swiss Army knife on the court. Jokic has this uncanny ability to dish out assists just like a point guard. His court vision is impeccable, making him invaluable. Have you ever seen a center lead his team in assists? Jokic does just that, averaging 8.6 assists per game last season. His ability to read the game, threading passes through impossibly tight defenses, sets him apart.
You know how some players just have that “it” factor? Michael Porter Jr. is one of them. The 6-foot-10 forward has a wingspan that seems limitless. His shooting range is another thing to marvel at. I recall the game against the Utah Jazz where he nailed a three-point shot from near half-court with just seconds remaining. It was a moment that fans and analysts will talk about for a long time. Last season, he averaged 19 points per game and shot 44.5% from beyond the arc—a sharpshooter in every sense of the word.
Let’s not forget Jamal Murray, who after his knee injury, is making a triumphant return. Before his injury, he averaged 21.2 points per game and shot 48.4% from the field during the 2019-2020 season. His killer instinct in clutch moments is undeniable. Do you remember the 2020 NBA Playoffs where he scored 50 points not once, but twice, against the Utah Jazz? Absolutely breathtaking stuff. He’s the kind of player who brings a different vibe, a sense of urgency in the closing moments of a game that no one can ignore.
Among the upcoming talents, Bones Hyland is carving his name on the roster. He’s quick on his feet and has that youthful explosiveness. During his rookie season, he averaged 10.1 points coming off the bench and had a 36.6% shooting accuracy from the three-point line. Dealing with the likes of veterans and holding his ground shows the mettle this young gun possesses. In a recent game against the Milwaukee Bucks, he scored a career-high 24 points, showing glimpses of what’s to come.
It’s also crucial to mention Aaron Gordon. After joining the team from the Orlando Magic, he’s shown a significant impact. Standing at 6-foot-8 and 235 pounds, Gordon is an athletic marvel. He averaged 12.4 points and 6.2 rebounds per game last season. He has this knack for making those high-flying dunks that make you jump out of your seat. In a game against the Los Angeles Lakers, Gordon pulled off one of the most mind-blowing alley-oops, courtesy of a pass from Jokic. It’s the kind of play that you end up watching on highlight reels again and again.
And let’s give a nod to Will Barton, the guy who is like the glue holding the team together. At 6-foot-6 and weighing 205 pounds, his versatility is a huge asset. Last season, he averaged 14.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game. He can switch between playing as a guard and a forward effortlessly. In one of the games against the Phoenix Suns, Barton’s relentless energy on both ends of the court was palpable. His ability to defend top scorers and still contribute offensively makes him a key player.
Monte Morris, another jewel in the Nuggets' lineup, can never be underestimated. His assist-to-turnover ratio is one of the best in the league at 4.8, showcasing his careful ball-handling skills. Whenever he’s on the floor, he ensures that the team functions like a well-oiled machine. In a game against the Golden State Warriors, Morris displayed his defensive prowess by successfully limiting Steph Curry to less than 20 points. These are the moments when you realize how crucial such a player is to the team.
As the season progresses, it’s going to be fascinating watching these key players further elevate the team’s game. If there’s one thing certain, it’s that each of these athletes brings something unique to the table, making Denver a force to be reckoned with in the NBA. With Nikola Jokic’s brilliance, Michael Porter Jr.'s sharpshooting, Jamal Murray’s clutch performances, Aaron Gordon’s athleticism, Bones Hyland’s youthful energy, Will Barton’s versatility, and Monte Morris’ meticulous playmaking, the Nuggets are poised for an exciting season. So why not keep an eye on them, maybe even check them out den nba and watch the magic unfold?