During the 2023 NBA playoffs, the Nuggets managed to limit their opponents to only 80, 87, 103, and 93 points in various matches. The opposing teams included notable players such as Karl-Anthony Towns, Anthony Edwards, Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Playoff Jimmy Butler.
The Nuggets’ impressive offense gets a lot of attention, but it would be shortsighted to overlook their defensive capabilities. Winning championships requires the ability to make crucial stops on the court.
Critics often attempt to criticize Jokic’s defense, but it’s important to note that while he may not be a defensive powerhouse, it’s unfair to label him as a poor defender. He excels at rebounding, has quick reflexes, and is always willing to defend. Additionally, the team has other players, such as Aaron Gordon, Kentavious Caldwell Pope, and Bruce Brown, who are known for their elite defensive skills.
The Nuggets have a remarkable 8.3+ differential in the postseason, which is more than four points higher than any other team in the playoffs. Their ability to both prevent their opponents from scoring and excel offensively has led to an impressive 16-3 record in the playoffs, putting them just three wins away from an NBA championship.
The Nuggets and the Miami HEAT have almost identical defensive ratings in the playoffs, despite the HEAT’s reputation for defensive prowess. It’s becoming increasingly clear to both casual fans and the mainstream media that the Nuggets are a well-rounded team with strength from top to bottom. It’s not a coincidence that many of their game-winning plays in the playoffs have been impressive defensive stops.
If they manage to secure the championship, there will undoubtedly be chatter about the formidable defense displayed by Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon on LeBron’s potential game-tying FG, which led to their victory and a sweep of the Lakers.
Gordon says when he is 90 years old if they win the title he will look back on this time fondly.
The job isn’t done, but the finish line is becoming clear.
Here is Jamal Murray speaking to BSO about if the Nuggets are an underrated defensive team.
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