The Nuggets brought back the Plumlic lineup unfortunately, but they were able to handle business against the Knicks.
The Denver Nuggets came out of the gate on fire. Thanks to strong performances from Nikola Jokic and Gary Harris, they were able to make quick work of the New York Knicks.
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The Knicks did not necessarily play a bad game, but this night belonged to Denver and their high flying offensive prowess.
They shot an outstanding 60% as a team to couple with a three point field goal percentage of 50%. I’d say Malone bringing back last year’s offense in practices this week certainly did the trick. The Knicks on the other hand, shot 54.9% along with 38.1% from three point territory. Great numbers as well, but Denver was just the better offensive juggernaut.
The Nuggets still let Kristaps Porzingis have a decent game, as he finished with 21 points. However, as the final score of 130-118 shows, defense was not a big priority for either team in this game.
Trey Lyles continues to be a steal for Denver as he finished with 21 points coming off the bench leading the second unit. He shot an extremely efficient 75% from the field and came away with five rebounds as well.
The starting unit did their job well. Every starter from Denver finished in double figures points wise and also had a positive box plus/minus. Something we have not seen often enough this season which shows the Nuggets’ inconsistency. If the Nuggets can use this momentum from their last two wins now, they will be able to start creeping back up in the Western Conference playoff picture. Not to mention, Paul Millsap will be back soon which should make the other teams wary.
It is now up to this team to start winning on a consistent basis and recapture the magic they found at the beginning of the season.