The Denver Nuggets continued from where they left in the previous season. In the repeat game of the Western Conference Finals, the Los Angeles Lakers once again failed to cross the line. Apart from explosives best from Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray, head coach Michael Malone recognized Kentavious Caldwell-Pope a. k. a KCP’s valuable contribution to the team’s victory.

The season opener had a curtain raiser event where the defending champions wielded the rings in front of the home crowd. Amid this prestigious moment, the team had a grave challenge ahead of them, in the form of Lakers. However, it didn’t seem to affect the balance of the champions, as dominated the game right from the word get go.

Denver Nuggets star KCP receives perfect gift

Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray led the scoreboard for the Nuggets and produced a comfortable victory. Rightly so, fans cheered them for their contributions on the court. Meanwhile, the efforts of the defenders often get overshadowed. And, Michael Malone has the right way to appreciate his defenders after the game. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who scored 20 points in the game, was also recognized for his efforts in the defense corner.

Following the game, the team’s locker room echoed its cheers for KCP as Michael Malone presented him the perfect gift. As part of the Nuggets’ tradition, the best defense player of the evening receives a chain presented in front of his teammates. After the Tuesday night victory, Malone chose KCP as the winner of the Defense Player of the Game. However, he credited Jokic and Aaron Gordon for their efforts in restricting Anthony Davis and LeBron James.

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While presenting the chain to KCP, Malone said, “KCP, I thought your impact on both ends of the floor was outstanding.” In return, Pope hilariously responded, “We got a new chain this time.” Amid all this, the teammates broke into a loud cheer.

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Above all, Malone also spoke about the pressure of playing in the season opener.

Malone on playing on the opening day

As per the NBA tradition, the Nuggets players received the championship rings in a grand event on the court ahead of the game. Moreover, the championship banner was also placed in the rafters. These heightened emotions could affect the players’ mindset during the game. Rightly so, Malone addressed it. He added, “That’s not an easy game to play after all the emotion, receiving a ring and putting up a banner. You guys handled your business. Proud of you for that.”

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The Nuggets have continued from where they left off. Will they repeat their 2022-23 glory in this season? Let us know in the comments.