The 2024 NBA playoffs are in full swing. For head coach Michael Malone and the Denver Nuggets, they are trying to win back-to-back titles. Additionally, they are seeking to become the first team to repeat since the Golden State Warriors in 2018. With NBA MVP-favorite Nikola Jokic leading the way, the Nuggets look to hoist the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy for the second-straight season.
Denver Nuggets Championship Formula
Even though the Denver Nuggets did not secure the first seed in the Western Conference, fans should not be overly concerned. With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Oklahoma City Thunder capturing the top seed, Jokic and company will not have the luxury of home-court advantage during the playoffs. While this presents a challenge for Malone’s team, they need to embrace being road warriors. During the regular season, they proved that they can be successful away from Ball Arena. If “Joker” continues playing at an MVP-level, the Nuggets can compete with any team. Along with Jamal Murray, Jokic will be an integral piece to Denver’s championship puzzle in 2024.
In order for the Nuggets to go on a deep postseason run, Michael Malone will need contribution from other players. One such player is Michael Porter Jr. Porter was instrumental in helping the Nuggets reach the postseason. Despite dealing with family drama, he was locked in during Game 1 against the Los Angeles Lakers. In the 114-103 victory, he scored 19 points to go along with eight rebounds. If he can stay active on the glass, the Denver Nuggets will go far in the postseason this year.
Follow The MVP’s Lead
Since making his NBA debut in 2015, center Nikola Jokic has been the go-to guy for the Nuggets. This season, he made a strong case for winning his third NBA MVP. In addition, he is well on his way to leading the Nuggets to their second-straight NBA title. Similar to last season’s title run, “Joker” is leading the way. However, Jokic’s game has evolved since the Nuggets beat the Miami Heat en route to their first NBA championship.
For starters, he has proven that he is a stronger presence on the glass. During the regular season, he averaged 12.4 rebounds per game. If he is able to be a dominate rebounder throughout the postseason, the Nuggets will be in good shape.
The most successful playoff teams throughout NBA history had at least one difference maker on their team. Nikola Jokic is the difference maker for the Denver Nuggets. This season, he proved his worth not only as a shooter, but as an elite passer as well. Having recorded 708 assists, “Joker” set a new NBA record for assists by a center. In passing NBA legend Wilt Chamberlain, Jokic is quickly rising in the ranks of all-time NBA greats. With each record he shatters, the Nuggets are going to continue their reign atop the NBA.
A Roster Built On Championship Success
If their 114-103 victory over LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers in game one is any indication, the Denver Nuggets’ repeat aspirations are high. On the other hand, D’Angelo Russell and company believe that they will avenge their loss to Michael Malone’s team during last season’s conference finals. During that series, the Lakers were in each game, but the Nuggets’ grit and determination won out in the end. However, James has been to 10 NBA Finals during his career. In order for the Nuggets to beat the Lakers in the playoffs this season, they must limit James’ impact.
As things currently stand, all signs point to the Denver Nuggets meeting the Boston Celtics in the 2024 NBA Finals. Anchored by Jokic and Murray, Denver has one of the most dangerous lineups in the playoffs this season. If bench players Peyton Watson and Christian Braun are able to provide valuable minutes, the Nuggets will be a dominate force in the playoffs this season.
About The Author
Christopher Svancara has been a passionate fan of basketball, baseball, and football since he was young. He also has a passion for expressing himself through his writing. His favorite aspect of writing about sports is uncovering the hidden stories about players and teams. As a Colorado native and an alumnus of the University of Colorado Boulder, Svancara developed a passion for a variety of Colorado sports teams. His favorite teams are the Colorado Buffaloes, Colorado Rockies, Denver Broncos, and Denver Nuggets. He loves to attend sporting events to watch the drama unfold in person. Sharing the excitement of these moments with his readers is what motivates him to be a sports writer for Total Apex Sports.
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