Kofi Inkoom
In 2023-24 NBA season, the reigning champion Denver Nuggets appear just as formidable as before, indicating a seamless transition from the previous season.
This was evident on Sunday when Denver delivered an exceptional performance on the road, thoroughly defeating the Thunder with a resounding score of 128-95.
To be frank, the game might not have been as competitive as the score suggests.
Nuggets’ coach Michael Malone emphasized that winning a championship doesn’t mean they can rest on their laurels in the new season. Last year’s success, while remarkable, is irrelevant to the current season.
“Winning a championship, the one thing you worry about is thinking we can just show up this year and we’re going to win,” Michael Malone told reporters. “And that’s not the case. This is a brand new season. What we did last year, although magical in nature, has nothing to do with this season. And I think our players, the way they’re playing — it’s very early — but after three games, our guys are playing with the requisite mindset that you need to if you’re going to be a team that can try to win another championship.”
The Nuggets showcased their defensive prowess by limiting Oklahoma City to a mere 40 percent shooting and effectively neutralizing the All-NBA guard, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, holding him to a 2-of-16 shooting performance.
“You’ve got to credit guys like [Kentavious Caldwell-Pope], who I think is an all-NBA defender,” Malone added. “You know, we asked him to guard the best players 82 regular season games and 20 playoff games last year and he’s totally committed to that. He understands that that’s his greatest gift to this basketball team.”
Notably, Nikola Jokic continued to impress with another double-double, amassing 28 points and 14 rebounds, with 21 points coming in the first half.
Michael Porter Jr. and Jamal Murray also contributed with 19 points each.
Before this encounter, OKC had displayed impressive form by winning their first two games on the road.
On the other hand, the Nuggets (3-0) demonstrated their ability to secure victories, regardless of the venue.
Coach Malone stressed the importance of maintaining strong defense, especially when playing away from home against top NBA teams.
“We know that we have to be a team that can travel, beat the best teams in the NBA on the road,” Malone said. “And to do that, you have to bring the defense. And I felt our defense tonight was outstanding across the board.”
The Nuggets are now gearing up to host the Utah Jazz at the Ball Arena tomorrow as they seek to uphold their championship-level performances, boasting a 3-0 record.