Nuggets podcast: Nikola Jokic’s NBA rank, playoff predictions and more
By Tom West
Listen to the latest Wraparound NBA podcast for conversations about where Nikola Jokic ranks among the NBA’s elite, where the Denver Nuggets could rank in the Western Conference playoff picture and more.
NBA free agency doesn’t have much to offer now besides the rumors of where Derrick Rose might end up and the Denver Nuggets’ roster looks set, at least for now. They haven’t traded one of their many power forwards, so we have plenty of time to kill before next season to analyze and discuss the team as is.
To do just that, I joined Paul Headley of 16 Wins a Ring on The Wraparound NBA podcast to talk all things Nuggets.
Once you’ve followed Paul on Twitter by clicking on his name above (I recommend you do, and you can also find me @TomWestNBA, if you’re interested), go ahead and listen to everything we broke down.
A key point of discussion was where we think the Nuggets could rank in the Western Conference playoff picture next season. I believe they should be in the six/seven range, and definitely have the potential to secure the sixth seed.
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After adding Paul Millsap, they only need a passable defense to get by and rack up more wins than last season to compete in this ridiculously stacked conference. Their offense will still be elite with Millsap’s help, and after leading the league in offensive rating once Nikola Jokic started full-time from December 15 onwards, a defensive boost will do the team the world of good.
In addition to playoff projections, we talked about some of the Nuggets’ best young players such as Gary Harris and Jamal Murray, who should be kept as integral parts of the team’s future, what defensive issues Millsap addresses, the impact of Millsap’s leadership, where Jokic ranks among the NBA’s best players (spoiler: it’s very high) and more.
Next: Nuggets Film Room: How Millsap's post play helps Denver
In short, there’s plenty for you to listen to. And to liven up the community here at Nugg Love, be sure to leave your comments below with any reactions to the podcast or reach out to us on Twitter, whether you loved every word or want to disagree with Stephen A. Smith levels of fury. Enjoy, and subscribe to Paul’s podcast for more.