Denver Nuggets: Season Preview

Published 09/29/2017, 8:34 AM EDT

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Denver Nuggets 2016-17 record: 40-42 (9 in Western Conference)

Additions: Tyler Lydon (Draft, Draft pick trade), Vlatko Cancar (Draft), Monte Morris (Draft), Trey Lyles (Trade), Mason Plumlee (Free Agency: Re-signed), Paul Millsap (Free Agency), Torrey Craig (Free Agency: Two-way contract)

Subtractions: Mike Miller (Free Agency), Donovan Mitchell (Draft pick trade), Danilo Gallinari (Trade)

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Since George Karl’s reign at Denver ended, the Nuggets have not been to the playoffs. They are yet to register a winning season since. Lack of all-star talent and injuries have not helped. This season, they have made a splash, but is it sufficient?

 

New Faces

Tyler Lydon, the number 24 pick came in a trade with Trey Lyles, for Denver’s number 13 pick. Two years at Syracuse saw him average a decent point and rebound tally, and nearly 1.5 blocks a game. Ideally will translate into a scorer, board presence and defensive presence. Vlatko Cancar is a role player, coming off a European championship win with Slovenia. Monte Morris is an interesting choice. He had two good seasons at Iowa State. He had a two way contract and will split his time in the NBA and G-league.

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The big free agency splash: Paul Millsap. In 4 years with Atlanta, he was an all-star and averaged 17 points, 8 rebounds and has been a reliable defender. His stardom is something the Nuggets have not had since Carmelo Anthony. Tyler Lyles who came on a trade should be able to provide production off the bench. Mason Plumlee, at times can be frustrating but has shown some all-round play. For a big man, he has some good ball-handling skills.

 

The Bad

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The downside for the Nuggets is that it is just not enough. The West is very competitive this season. So competitive, there are going to be all-star snubs. Teams like Houston, Pelicans, Golden State, Clippers, OKC have multiple stars. Then teams like San Antonio and Utah who have reliable players through their roster. They are not a team in rebuilding as well.

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Millsap is an upgrade for the team, but they have also lost a reliable scorer in Gallinari (when healthy). In this very competitive Western Conference, their chances of landing a playoff spot are slim at best.

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Verdict

The Nuggets finally have an all-star calibre player in Millsap and some interesting youngsters. Unfortunately, this will not be enough if the Nuggets want to break their playoff drought. The West is very competitive this season. Their only hope is to finish strong this season and wait for the upcoming season.

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