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(Grant Thomas/Yahoo Sports Illustration)
La saison NBA 2024-25 est lancée ! Nous allons examiner les principales questions, les scénarios les meilleurs et les pires, ainsi que les perspectives de fantasy pour toutes les équipes. Profitez-en !
DENVER NUGGETS
Performance de 2023-24
Mouvements de l’intersaison
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Ajouts : Russell Westbrook, Dario Saric, DaRon Holmes II
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Départs : Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Reggie Jackson, Justin Holiday
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Liste complète
The Big Question: Can the Nuggets Stem the Tide of Attrition?
The Nuggets have a formidable core consisting of Nikola Jokić, Jamal Murray, Aaron Gordon, and Michael Porter Jr. But who else do they have? Though this quartet forms the incredible backbone of a team that clinched the championship in 2023, the roster supporting them has suffered losses over the last two summers.
After their title run, Bruce Brown and Jeff Green departed in search of better financial deals, while Kentavious Caldwell-Pope followed suit this past offseason. Individually, none of these players were game-changers, but their combined absence poses a significant challenge. With Brown and Green gone, Denver faced difficulties in maximizing contributions from Christian Braun and a group of rookies, which ultimately led to an early playoff exit.
So, what’s next? Does Caldwell-Pope’s departure further distance them from championship contention?
Let’s take a moment to assess. The Nuggets continue to have Jokić, arguably the best player in the world, whose unique talents can assure a 50-win season as long as he remains healthy. Murray, paired with Jokić in the pick-and-roll, creates the most dangerous offensive tandem in the league. Porter boasts a remarkable shooting ability from his towering 7-foot frame, while Gordon combines extraordinary strength and athleticism.
Add anyone to this mix, and the team will create numerous difficulties for opponents, just as they did the previous season when they outscored opponents by an impressive 14.5 points per 100 meaningful possessions without Caldwell-Pope in the lineup.
However, will this be sufficient to withstand the challenges of the Western Conference, let alone overcome the emerging contender from the East? Certainly not if Murray struggles to maintain his health. On media day, he informed reporters that he currently has no limitations from the knee injury that sidelined him for the entire 2021
string of All-Star teammates.
Equally significant is the ongoing development of Braun, Peyton Watson, and Julian Strawther. This was also the intention last season, when Watson and Strawther contributed little in a second-round defeat against Minnesota. Expecting Braun to play a crucial role is one thing; he was an essential component of their championship team. However, it’s another matter to rely on a multitude of prospects all at the same time.
Nonetheless, Jokić and Murray will create the necessary space for others to shine if anyone is prepared to embrace their role. They will generate open shot opportunities, reward players making cuts, and salvage possessions that have broken down. There will certainly be challenges along the way. The extent of Denver’s youth development by the end of the season will determine if this season concludes like the previous one or the one before. It is within their grasp. Remember: a squandered 20-point lead in Game 7 against the Timberwolves was all that stood between them and a return to the conference finals.
Best-case scenario
Denver’s decision to offer a maximum contract to Murray signifies their faith in his health. Together, he and Jokić dominate the league, inspiring those around them to elevate their performance. Porter provides contributions beyond his scoring. Braun solidifies his position as the fifth starter. Westbrook adds intensity to the bench. As Gordon remarked to reporters on media day, every Nugget should feel obligated to “[hold] up my end of the bargain.” What is that bargain? With Jokić in his prime, he gives the team a chance to contend for the title every season.
If everything falls apart
If Murray struggles to stay healthy or is less effective when he is on the court, and if no significant progress is seen from Denver’s young players, the situation could deteriorate. Instead of bringing energy, Westbrook introduces confusion to the bench. The reported tensions between head coach Michael Malone and the front office could also become a distraction. The Nuggets might face another exit in the second round of the playoffs. Ownership may question the rationale behind investing an additional $80 million into Porter through the 2026-27 season, prompting a reset around Jokić and Murray.
Fantasy spin
Instead of focusing solely on Jokić as one of the top fantasy assets, let’s discuss Murray. The market appears unconcerned about his health issues and underwhelming performances during the 2024 playoffs and Paris Olympics. I wish I shared their confidence, but I believe in moving away from Murray’s fifth-round ADP.
I’ve been targeting Gordon in points leagues. He has flourished in the dunker’s position for Denver, which has unlocked his potential to accumulate a range of fantasy stats through scoring, rebounding, and assisting. — Dan Titus
2024-25 schedule
Jokić has maintained an average of 53 wins per season over the last six years. This sets the benchmark for the league’s elite player, and he is likely to meet that standard again—regardless of the team’s depth. Bet the over.
2024-25 NBA Season Preview: Can the Denver Nuggets Overcome Key Departures and Elevate Their Championship Contention?
Overview of the Denver Nuggets’ Current Landscape
The Denver Nuggets enter the 2024-25 NBA season with significant changes following their championship victory last season. With the departure of pivotal players, questions loom over their ability to maintain championship contention. The Nuggets, led by MVP Nikola Jokić, must navigate these challenges while integrating new talent and adapting their strategies.
Key Departures and Their Impact
As the Nuggets prepare for the upcoming season, the loss of key players cannot be understated. Here’s a closer look at the most impactful departures and their potential effects:
- Kentavious Caldwell-Pope: A crucial defender and shooter, Caldwell-Pope’s absence will be felt on both ends of the court.
- Bruce Brown: Known for his versatility and clutch performances, Brown’s departure may leave a gap in the rotation.
- Jeff Green: With his veteran leadership and experience, Green’s exit could affect team morale and depth.
Strategies for Overcoming Departures
To counterbalance these losses, the Nuggets will need to implement effective strategies. Here are some key approaches they might consider:
- Increased Roles for Young Players: The emergence of younger talents like Christian Braun and Peyton Watson will be essential to fill the void left by veterans.
- Utilizing Free Agency: The Nuggets may look to the free agency market to sign strategic players who can provide immediate impact.
- Enhanced Team Chemistry: Focusing on building chemistry through training camps and preseason games will help integrate new players into the system.
Offseason Moves and New Additions
The Nuggets have made some strategic moves in the offseason to bolster their roster. Notable additions include:
| Player | Position | Previous Team | Expected Contribution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jae Crowder | Forward | Milwaukee Bucks | Defense, Versatility |
| Derrick FIsher | Guard | Retired | Mentorship, Leadership |
| Landry Shamet | Guard | Phoenix Suns | Shooting, Spacing |
Evaluating Key Additions
Each of these new players brings unique skills that can enhance the Nuggets’ playstyle:
- Jae Crowder: Known for his defensive prowess, Crowder can replace some of the defensive intensity lost with Caldwell-Pope’s departure.
- Derrick Fisher: Though retired, his experience and insights can guide the younger roster through tough game situations.
- Landry Shamet: Adding a sharpshooter like Shamet can improve the Nuggets’ perimeter game, diversifying their offensive strategies.
Analyzing the Roster: Strengths and Weaknesses
As the Nuggets prepare for the season, analyzing their roster reveals both strengths and weaknesses:
Strengths
- Superstar Power: Nikola Jokić remains one of the league’s premier players, capable of carrying the team through adversity.
- Depth at Key Positions: With players like Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr., the Nuggets have a strong offensive foundation.
- Home Court Advantage: Playing at altitude, the Nuggets often perform better at home, which can be a crucial factor in the playoffs.
Weaknesses
- Defensive Cohesion: The loss of defensive stalwarts may lead to gaps in the Nuggets’ defensive schemes.
- Lack of Experience: Depending on younger players to step up may introduce inconsistency.
- Injury Concerns: The health of key players, particularly Murray, will be critical throughout the season.
Championship Contention: Factors to Consider
To elevate their championship contention status, the Nuggets need to succeed in various areas:
- Injury Management: Keeping players healthy throughout the season is crucial for maintaining performance levels.
- Defensive Adjustments: Developing a cohesive defensive strategy that compensates for lost talent will be vital.
- Offensive Efficiency: Ensuring the ball movement remains fluid and effective, especially with new additions, is critical for maintaining scoring outputs.
Predictions for the Upcoming Season
Experts suggest several predictions for the Nuggets this season:
- Playoff Contention: The Nuggets are expected to contend for a top playoff seed if they can quickly adapt to their new roster.
- Jokić’s MVP Chances: With continued impressive performances, Jokić could be in the running for another MVP award.
- Potential Trade Moves: Mid-season trade adjustments may be necessary if the team struggles to find its rhythm.
Conclusion: A Season of Opportunity
As the Denver Nuggets enter the 2024-25 season, they face a mix of challenges and opportunities. Their ability to integrate new talent and overcome the loss of key players will define their journey toward potential back-to-back championships.
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