Wilson Chandler has been struggling mightily this season, but coming off the bench could be the cure.
Wilson Chandler has been struggling ever since he was inserted into the starting rotation. After the departure of Danilo Gallinari for the Los Angeles Clippers, many thought Chandler would finally be happy with his new role on the Nuggets and continue his solid production from the past season.
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However, the start of this season has seen Chandler come out very slow out of the gate and look almost timid and passive at times. In the win over the Oklahoma City Thunder, Chandler only scored two points and passed up many open looks throughout the game. He also only had three rebounds while missing both free throws he attempted.
According to basketball-reference.com, Chandler has averaged only 7.7 points per game this year along with a field goal percentage of 40.2%. His offensive rating has also drastically dipped since last year when he did come off the bench as it is only at 103 so far this season. So, if Malone did relegate Chandler to bench, who would start in his place at the wing? Well for one, Malik Beasley has looked very aggressive when he does get valuable playing time.
With Hernangomez being out for a long period of time, Beasley could provide some valuable minutes in the starting rotation. As a result, Wilson Chandler could eventually find the same type of production he found coming off the bench as he did last year.
Chandler has not been happy with his role the last couple of years as a bench player, but he has shown so far that he is nowhere near as effective as a starter.
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If he refuses to make this adjustment should Malone make this adjustment, then it may be time to look for a trade for him.