Even with a full roster, the two biggest weaknesses on the Nuggets squad right now is on defense, particularly on the perimeter and shooting the rock from behind the arc. The Nuggets currently have the second worst defense in points allowed (100.8) and are among the worst in defending the 3-pointer (.367). On the opposite side of the ball the Nuggets shoot only .327 percent from behind the arc. Outside of Afflalo (.35) no other rotation players shoot better .34 percent from behind the arc. But there are players that could help. (more…)

Dan Issel at the Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Denver Nuggets game on March 11, 2009

One of the most notable personalities in Denver Nuggets history celebrated his 63rd birthday on Tuesday.

Dan Issel, nicknamed The Horse, not only spent all nine of his NBA season with the Nuggets – he also was the team’s coach for six seasons.

Issel started his playing days in the ABA with the Kentucky Colonels and would later end up with the Denver Nuggets in 1975. Issel was with the Nuggets when they moved to the NBA in 1977 and in his seven seasons in the NBA he averaged more than 23 points and nine rebounds. He also helped the Nuggets advance to the playoffs in seven seasons – including advancing to the second round in 1978 and then to the Western Conference Finals in 1985.

Issel was chosen to the 1978 All-Star game and retired as a Nugget in 1985. During his days in the NBA only Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Wilt Chamberlain and Julius Erving scored more points.  (more…)