DENVER — At the Denver Nuggets’ practice facility, a blue banner commemorating their 2023 NBA championship hangs prominently as head coach Mike Malone emphasizes the urgency of the upcoming 2024-25 season. This sentiment resonates with star guard Jamal Murray, who recently shared similar thoughts during a locker room address.
“He reminds his teammates not to take this for granted,” Malone stated at the Nuggets’ media day on Thursday. “He says, ‘We have a championship window, which is not something every team possesses. So, what do you do? Take advantage of it, or do you find yourself looking back 20 years from now filled with regrets?'”
Editor’s Picks
2 Related
Murray, who recently signed a four-year, $208 million maximum contract extension, emphasizes the importance of the team adopting the right mindset for this season.
“As we age, the younger players will witness our struggles in this league and understand how challenging it is for GMs to build a talented team that meshes well both on and off the court,” Murray explained. “So I urged them to seize the moment. We have the opportunity to achieve great things; let’s maximize it.”
One key reason the Nuggets feel a sense of urgency is the prime playing period of superstar center Nikola Jokic, a three-time NBA MVP.
“In a best-case scenario, I envision Nikola has a potential 10-year window for contention,” remarked Nuggets GM Calvin Booth. “We are approximately halfway through that. This means we probably have about five more viable chances, and every single opportunity is crucial. If we capitalize on one, that’s fantastic. The sooner we seize it, the more we can explore additional strategies, but winning another championship will be incredibly challenging.”
“I believe Nikola Jokic will likely be remembered as one of the greatest to ever play the game,” added forward Aaron Gordon. “[I’m] putting in immense effort to maximize his time in the NBA.”
Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) and guard Jamal Murray (27) feel confident in their roster’s ability and experience to contend for another NBA championship. Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Entering last season as title contenders, the Nuggets advanced to the playoffs but succumbed to a 20-point lead in a Game 7 defeat against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
“After a season where people label us as failures, it’s my responsibility to ensure we don’t focus on that negativity,” Malone expressed. “We are a solid team. Over the last six years, no other team in the West has come close to our achievements.”
This offseason, the Nuggets lost a key player in Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who has signed with Orlando. This exit follows the previous offseason’s loss of forward Bruce Brown, an integral part of their 2023 championship success.
In a highly competitive Western Conference, the Nuggets are optimistic that young talents like Christian Braun, Peyton Watson, and Julian Strawther can help bridge the gaps and strengthen the team’s depth. They are also relying on new additions, such as 2016-17 NBA MVP Russell Westbrook and backup center Dario Saric, who could help ease Jokic’s workload.
Westbrook, who signed a two-year deal with
In July, Westbrook expressed that it was an “honor” to play alongside Jokic. Reflecting on his previous experiences, Westbrook shared that the general approach to scouting reports for playing against Jokic was simply wishing “good luck” and hoping he would miss his shots.
“It’s valuable to be part of a team with someone who is truly unguardable,” Westbrook remarked about Jokic, adding, “I’m thankful to be on his team.”
Jokic, who played a key role in leading the Serbian national team to a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics in August, mentioned that he did not dwell on the Nuggets’ disappointing exit from the postseason. When reminded that Tuesday marked his 10th media day, the often-witty Jokic quipped, “Every year it’s the same thing. And I don’t understand why we do this annually. It’s always completely identical.”
However, Jokic expressed his enthusiasm for Westbrook, stating, “Of course, our on-court relationship wasn’t the best [before]. We had our share of conflicts and exchanges. But I understand him better outside the court; he’s a fantastic teammate with vocal leadership, someone who listens and follows in the gym. I believe he’s going to add a lot of value to our team.”
While Jokic may occasionally appear disinterested in the game — often more absorbed in his horses or life back in Serbia — he clarified: “Just because I don’t smile or laugh, it doesn’t mean I’m not excited. I’m really looking forward to seeing what we can achieve.”
Malone also addressed the more restrictive collective bargaining agreement and its impact on team-building across the NBA, while also tackling rumors of friction between himself and the Nuggets’ front office.
“Calvin, myself, and [Nuggets president/governor] Josh Kroenke, as long as we’re aligned in our communication, collaboration, and also challenge one another — Calvin and I should not always agree,” Malone noted. “If we always agree, then we’re not achieving what we need to. But through those discussions, we arrive at a better outcome. This is the reality. Observing the NBA landscape, teams are letting excellent players go because they want to avoid that unpleasant term ‘second apron.’
Malone referred to the changes that have made life tougher for the league’s biggest spenders, aiming to foster parity within the league. Teams that surpass both the first and second luxury tax aprons face stricter limitations on roster construction. The Nuggets are one of the several teams capped at the second apron, restricting them from exceeding approximately $189 million in total salary.
“As a coach, I need to educate myself because I often think solely about winning the game tonight,” Malone continued. “I need to give respect to Calvin and Josh and recognize there’s more at stake than just tonight. It’s also about the broader picture of how we ensure success not just for today and this season, but for the future.”
Concerning the CBA, Booth mentioned the aim of winning now while simultaneously nurturing their young talent — a strategy that hasn’t always yielded success, particularly for teams like the Golden State Warriors.
“There have been numerous discussions about prioritizing winning versus developing,” Booth commented. “I admire Jim Collins and his book ‘Good to Great.’ What we’re striving for isn’t unique. It’s feasible to win and develop at the same time. Once you have achieved success, you are responsible for developing. Oklahoma City has effectively cultivated their team and is now focused on winning. I believe it’s our duty, if we want to be great, to develop our players.”
The Nuggets are set to begin contract extension negotiations with Gordon on Friday. Gordon qualifies for a four-year, $143 million extension, and both he and Booth expressed optimism about reaching an agreement.
Training camp for the Nuggets begins on Friday before they head to Abu Dhabi for a couple of preseason games against the Boston Celtics on October 4 and October 6.
Nuggets’ Championship Window: Embracing Urgency for the 2024-25 NBA Season
Understanding the Championship Window
The Denver Nuggets have established themselves as a formidable force in the NBA, culminating in their first championship victory in 2023. As they prepare for the upcoming 2024-25 NBA season, it’s vital to recognize the concept of a championship window—a limited timeframe when a team has the opportunity to compete at the highest level. This article explores why embracing urgency is crucial for the Nuggets as they aim to maximize their chances of success.
The Current Roster and Key Players
The Nuggets’ core roster is filled with talent, led by Nikola Jokić, the two-time MVP. The synergy between the team’s star players is a critical factor in their championship aspirations.
Key Players to Watch in 2024-25
- Nikola Jokić - Center and playmaker, known for his exceptional passing and scoring ability.
- Jamal Murray – Dynamic guard with clutch shooting and playmaking skills.
- Michael Porter Jr. – A versatile forward who can stretch the floor and create mismatches.
- Aaron Gordon – Defensive stalwart and athletic forward, providing versatility on both ends of the court.
The Importance of Embracing Urgency
As the Nuggets build on their championship success, embracing urgency for the 2024-25 season is crucial. Here are several reasons why:
1. Competitive Landscape
The NBA is constantly evolving, with teams like the Golden State Warriors and Milwaukee Bucks also vying for supremacy. Maintaining a competitive edge requires the Nuggets to capitalize on their current strengths while addressing weaknesses.
2. Aging Stars
While the Nuggets’ core is still in their prime, players like Jeff Green and DeAndre Jordan are nearing the twilight of their careers. The urgency to win now is amplified by the realization that the championship window may not remain open indefinitely.
3. Fan Expectations
Winning the championship has set high expectations among fans and the franchise. The urgency to deliver another title will drive the team to perform at their best, ensuring that they do not become complacent.
Strategic Moves for the Upcoming Season
To maximize their chances in the 2024-25 season, the Nuggets must consider various strategic moves:
1. Player Development
Investing in the development of young players like Bones Hyland and Zeke Nnaji will be essential. Their growth can provide valuable depth and versatility.
2. Trade Opportunities
The Nuggets should explore trade opportunities to enhance their roster. Potential targets could include players who can add defensive prowess or scoring ability off the bench.
3. Health Management
Injuries have plagued many teams in the past, including the Nuggets. Prioritizing player health through load management and conditioning programs will be vital in preserving the core players for the playoffs.
Benefits of Urgency in the Championship Pursuit
Embracing urgency can yield several benefits for the Nuggets in their quest for another championship:
- Increased Focus: A sense of urgency fosters heightened concentration and commitment among players and coaching staff.
- Stronger Team Chemistry: The pressure of competing for a title often brings teams closer together, enhancing on-court chemistry.
- Motivation to Improve: Knowing that time is limited encourages players to push themselves to develop skills and adapt strategies.
Case Study: The Milwaukee Bucks
The Milwaukee Bucks serve as a prime example of a team that successfully embraced urgency. After winning the championship in 2021, they focused on retaining key players while strategically augmenting their roster. This commitment to improving has kept them competitive and in the championship conversation.
Lessons Learned
- Understanding the need for roster adjustments.
- Fostering a culture of improvement and accountability.
- Recognizing the importance of depth in the postseason.
First-Hand Experience: The Nuggets’ Championship Journey
Reflecting on the Nuggets’ championship journey in 2023 provides valuable insights into the urgency needed for 2024-25. The team’s resilient performance in the playoffs highlights the importance of staying focused and adapting under pressure.
Playoff Highlights
| Round | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|
| First Round | Minnesota Timberwolves | 4-1 Win |
| Conference Semifinals | Phoenix Suns | 4-2 Win |
| Conference Finals | Los Angeles Lakers | 4-0 Sweep |
| NBA Finals | Miami Heat | 4-1 Win |
Practical Tips for the Nuggets in 2024-25
To navigate the upcoming season effectively, the Nuggets should consider the following practical tips:
- Set Clear Goals: Establish specific performance metrics for the regular season and playoffs.
- Maintain Open Communication: Encourage dialogue between players and the coaching staff to foster a culture of trust.
- Analyze Opponents: Invest in comprehensive scouting to prepare for potential playoff matchups.
Conclusion: The Path Forward
As the Nuggets gear up for the 2024-25 NBA season, embracing urgency will be pivotal. By leveraging their star power, developing young talent, and maintaining a competitive edge, they can maximize their championship window and build on their recent success. With the right strategies and mindset, the Nuggets are poised to make another deep playoff run.
