As the Denver Nuggets ventured into their preseason clash against the Phoenix Suns, expectations were high. A robust performance was envisioned, despite the match being part of the build-up to the regular NBA season. Yet, the Nuggets fell short, succumbing to a 118-114 loss in what turned out to be a revealing evening for both the players and the coaching staff.
Denver’s Strategic Experiment
Michael Malone, the head coach of the Nuggets, opted for an experimental approach during the game. His decision to keep the starting unit on the court for the entire third quarter marked a strategic push to test the team's endurance and cohesion. “Played that starting unit the whole third quarter to try to push their envelope a little bit,” Malone explained post-game. This tactical choice highlighted Malone’s intent to maximize the preseason opportunity to fine-tune his squad’s conditioning and readiness for the grind of the upcoming season.
Nevertheless, the intense approach wasn’t without its challenges. Malone himself acknowledged the potential strain on his players, noting, “That was probably a little bit hard on some of those guys. 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.” Malone’s comments underline a broader concern within the league – the need for players to maintain peak physical conditions despite evolving practices that often emphasize caution over rigorous physical preparation.
Challenges During Play
The game also dealt the Nuggets a significant blow when Jamal Murray was sidelined in the second half due to a knee issue. This unexpected absence forced Malone’s hand, compelling him to rely more heavily on Christian Braun and Julian Swather to fill the void left by Murray. Their performance was closely scrutinized as they were thrust into pivotal roles amidst a competitive matchup with the Suns.
Last season’s playoff exit still lingers in the minds of the Nuggets, a stark reminder of the volatility and unpredictability inherent in the NBA. They had held a 3-2 series lead against the Minnesota Timberwolves before the tide turned against them. While the preseason loss to the Suns is not of the same magnitude, it reiterates the areas requiring attention as the team gears up for a rigorous season ahead.
Adjustments Off the Court
Adding to the challenges on the court, the Nuggets had to contend with offseason adjustments, including the departure of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to the Orlando Magic. This roster shuffle necessitated effective integration of new and existing players to sustain the team’s competitive edge.
In the wake of these changes, Nuggets’ forward Michael Porter Jr. emphasized the importance of conditioning and consistent movement. “The better conditioned you are, the most opportunities will find you because you're just always moving,” Porter Jr. stated, encapsulating the focus and determination driving the team’s preparation. He candidly shared that maintaining top conditioning is “a big goal for me this year.”
Looking Forward
While the preseason bout with the Suns didn’t pan out as the Nuggets might have hoped, it serves its purpose in illuminating both strengths and weaknesses. The capacity to learn and adapt ensures these games are a platform for growth, insight, and development. As the regular season approaches, Denver will aim to leverage these early lessons, refining their strategy and execution to position themselves for the challenges that await.