Baseline Cut's

2009/2010 Team Preview: Denver Nuggets October 1, 2009

Of all the teams that have come 180 in a season, Denver of the 2008/2009 season were one of the best transformations I have ever seen. They went from being the “All-thugs” of the NBA with a list that was more famous for misdemeanors than basketball ability to the darlings of the playoffs, the team everyone wanted to win simply because they were the toad that turned into Prince Charming. The question hanging over Denvers head this season however is; was it a fluke?  It’s a tough question and some may even go as far as to say, unfair, but we’ll keep this in the back of our minds as we go to the depth chart:

"Hmmm... Where too from here?" Hopefully the Finals for Denver fans.

PG: Chauncey Billups, Anthony Carter, Ty Lawson

SG: JR Smith, Aaron Afflalo

SF: Carmello Anthony, Renaldo Balkman, James White

PF: Kenyon Martin, Malik Allen

C: Nene Hilario, Chris Andersen, Johan Petro

That starting 5 is one of the best in the league with either Andersen or Smith coming off the bench to give defense or offense – take your pick. This is handy for coach Karl as it means he can choose what type of start he wants his team to have, then use the bench to counteract as needed. He also has energy players such as Balkman, Lawson and Afflalo if for some reason the 6th player doesn’t do what they’re supposed too. So given all that, why are people everywhere saying that last season was a fluke? Well, it’s a case of zebra’s and their stripes – here’s why I think the stripes have changed for good:

Reason #1: Chauncey Billups is still there and has had a full pre-season with the team. This can not be emphasized enough. Last season Billups’ impact was immediate WITHOUT really getting to know his team. Such was the contrast between he and Iverson, coupled with the respect he demands from those around him, Billups transformed the mindset of the entire team. This season he’ll be there in camp – passing on his knowledge, mentoring the young guys, and getting everyone to follow the system to the most minute detail. Expect this to improve the Nuggets half-court sets dramatically (especially given that before Billups, there really was no such thing as a half-court set in Denver!!!) and for them to have set options ready for all their opponents.

If Carmello can stay healthy, he can be the league leader in scoring this season

Reason #2: Carmello Anthony had an average season and they still made the West Finals. Even by Melo’s own admission his 2008/2009 season was average. His statistics fell across the board, but he improved dramatically in a particular area that had been lacking for his entire career – leadership. Melo finally showed that he had the ability to show up when it counted (I’ll never forget that shot against Dallas), and keep his team-mates heads in the game (rather than the complete opposite).  Now he knows he’s capable, I’m sure this season he’ll be looking to mesh his two worlds – the old high powered, unstoppable scoring machine, with the more-aware, mature, floor leader. Add too that he’ll probably look to hit the boards harder this year and you have a pretty scary prospect for other SF’s in the league and even PF’s who attempt to go “out” to guard his now deadly jumper. My prediction is Melo to lead the NBA in scoring this season and in doing so, lead the Nuggets back to the West Finals.

If the team does have weaknesses, they’re defense and injuries. The defense is getting better no doubt, but the injuries have plagued this team constantly since Melo arrived. If they have a healthy season they’re too versatile, and deep a team to not be considered in the Wests top 4, or even Top 2. My prediction is for them to win the Northwest division, get second seed in the West, and sail on through to the finals where they’ll meet LA or San Antonio.