Nuggets Fall to Suns in Preseason Clash
In a tightly contested preseason matchup, the Denver Nuggets fell short against the Phoenix Suns, posting a final score of 118-114. The game was a tale of rhythm and adaptability, particularly for Denver, as they navigated player absences and strategic adjustments by head coach Michael Malone.
Malone's Game Plan
Michael Malone, the Nuggets’ head coach, opted for a rigorous test for his team, playing his starting unit for the entire duration of the third quarter. His tactic was clear; push the players' limits and see how they fare. “Played that starting unit the whole third quarter to try to push their envelope a little bit,” Malone explained. This decision was not just about testing physical endurance, but also about gauging mental fortitude—an effort to shake off any rust from the off-season and to prepare for the taxing schedule of the regular season.
Malone's strategy reflects his concern that the modern NBA is steering towards leniency in conditioning players. “That was probably a little bit hard on some of those guys. In practice I think we can get up and down more,” he noted, adding that the league has perhaps grown “soft.” For Malone, conditioning is non-negotiable; it’s foundational to the team’s long-term success. “Everybody's afraid to condition and run. Well, we have to,” he asserted.
Jamal Murray's Absence
The absence of Jamal Murray in the second half due to a knee issue forced Malone to adjust on the fly. In Murray’s absence, Malone turned to Christian Braun and Julian Swather to fill the void. The impact of this shift was immediately felt, emphasizing the importance of depth in the Nuggets roster. The Nuggets are no strangers to adapting under pressure—just last year, they experienced a roller-coaster against the Minnesota Timberwolves, losing a playoff series after holding a 3-2 lead.
Player Perspective
Michael Porter Jr., a key piece in the Nuggets’ offensive puzzle, resonated with Malone’s emphasis on conditioning. “The better conditioned you are, the most opportunities will find you because you're just always moving,” Porter expressed, highlighting his personal commitment to this aspect of his training. For Porter, maintaining peak physical condition is not just a task; “That's a big goal for me this year,” he affirmed, recognizing that conditioning could very well be the differentiator in close games and critical moments.
Offseason Changes
With the offseason departure of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to the Orlando Magic, the Nuggets are in a phase of recalibration. His exit opens up opportunities and tests for newer and younger players like Braun and Swather, who are called upon to step up in critical moments. These changes underscore a pivotal offseason for the Nuggets, one that demands adaptation and resilience as they aim to build on their experiences.
Looking Ahead
Despite the loss, the Nuggets are in high spirits, focusing on refining their strategy and improving player cohesion. There’s an optimistic air around Malone’s long-term vision; a belief that with enhanced conditioning and player development, the team can rise to the occasion. This preseason defeat could serve as a valuable lesson, fostering growth and readiness for when the games truly count.
As the preseason progresses, the Nuggets will continue to tweak their strategies and bolster their lineup strength, preparing for a fiercely competitive season ahead. With a dynamic coach at the helm and players committed to personal and collective growth, the Nuggets are poised to embrace challenges and exceed expectations.