It’s been nearly a week since the Denver Nuggets shut down all doubt with a commanding Game 7 win over the Clippers. And now, with the Western Conference Semifinals tipping off against the Oklahoma City Thunder, the defending champs find themselves facing a familiar question: how healthy is their core? After all, if there’s one thing we’ve learned about playoff basketball, it’s that everything starts and ends with availability.

From Nikola Jokic’s unmatched regular-season dominance to Michael Porter Jr.’s quiet consistency, the Nuggets have leaned heavily on their top guys all year. But as Game 1 looms, there’s been chatter about Porter Jr.’s lingering shoulder soreness. Add to that a few names on the injury report, and suddenly, it’s not just about beating the Thunder; it’s about being whole enough to show up.

Well, Denver fans can exhale for now. According to ESPN, both Nikola Jokic and Michael Porter Jr. are expected to suit up for Game 1 tonight. Jokic, despite a quieter Game 7 performance against the Clippers, remains the engine behind everything the Nuggets do. As for Michael Porter Jr., he has been nursing a shoulder injury that’s caused some discomfort throughout the postseason, but is listed as available. It’s not without concern, though, as any tweak could impact his shooting rhythm, especially against a gritty OKC defense. Meanwhile, rookie DaRon Holmes II has been ruled out with an Achilles issue, though head coach David Adelman confirmed he did participate in portions of Wednesday’s practice.

The bigger question heading into tonight isn’t just about who’s playing; it’s about what version of them we’re getting. Jokic is coming off a regular season for the ages: 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, 10.2 assists on 57.6% shooting. But in Game 7, he was quiet by his standards. That’s where Porter Jr. becomes pivotal. He quietly put up 18.2 points and 7 rebounds a game this season, shooting over 50% from the field. Yet it’s not just the numbers; it’s his role as the floor spacer, the pressure reliever, the guy who makes defenses pay for collapsing on the Joker.

As the Nuggets prep for another deep playoff run, their margin for error is slim. Jokic may be the MVP candidate, but it’s players like Porter; grinding through personal and physical battles, who could tilt the series. If his shoulder holds up and his shooting stroke stays true, this Nuggets team will be an even tougher out. With OKC’s young legs coming fast, Denver needs every edge it can get.

Now that we know Denver’s stars will suit up, all eyes turn to how they’ll hold up across 48 minutes. And for a team still chasing back-to-back rings, the postseason is only just heating up.

More than just a one-man army

If this postseason has proven anything, it’s that the Nuggets aren’t a one-man show anymore. Sure, Jokic is still the centerpiece; the floor general, the facilitator, the MVP-caliber big, but look around, and you’ll see a team quietly firing on all cylinders. Jamal Murray’s been lethal late in games, pouring in clutch buckets like his 29-point effort against the Lakers. Michael Porter Jr., even through a shoulder injury, is shooting 44.1% from deep this postseason. And Aaron Gordon, the ever-understated glue guy, continues to do the dirty work; locking up wings, boxing out, and delivering buckets when no one’s looking.

Then there’s the resurgence of Russell Westbrook. Doubted, dismissed, and labeled past his prime; Westbrook’s playoff numbers are a revelation. He’s shooting a scorching 41.9% from three, outpacing names like Curry, Tatum, and even Kawhi. His minutes might be limited, but his impact sure isn’t. In fact, his smart shot selection and burst off the bench have given the Nuggets a new edge, especially when the starters need a breather. When depth matters most, Denver has found unlikely heroes.

With Game 1 approaching, let’s look at how the team lines up tonight-

And it’s not just Denver embracing the full-squad mentality. Across the bracket, top contenders like the Celtics, Timberwolves, and Knicks are seeing role players step into the spotlight. Whether it’s Josh Hart diving for loose balls or Derrick White locking down elite guards, the theme this year is clear: it’s not about how many stars you have. It’s about how many guys are ready to shine! Denver just might have the perfect mix.