Denver Nuggets: Nugg Love 2019 mock NBA playoff prediction

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MINNEAPOLIS, MN – APRIL 11: Jamal Murray #27 of the Denver Nuggets defends against Jimmy Butler #23 of the Minnesota Timberwolves during the game on April 11, 2018 at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Timberwolves defeated the Nuggets 112-106. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /

Western Conference

Golden State Warriors

"They’re maybe the best team that we have ever seen. Now they are adding superstar DeMarcus Cousins to the mix which on paper looks like a slam dunk. If Cousins can get back up to full speed and keep his head in check, this year will be a cake walk."

2. Houston Rockets

"Losing Trevor Ariza hurts pretty bad. Nonetheless, reigning MVP James Harden is un-guardable, and bringing back a healthy Chris Paul will keep the Rockets on pace to at least challenge the Warriors."

3. Utah Jazz

"Donovan Mitchell is special and he is only going to get better. Utah is a very dangerous team, but given the competitiveness of the West, they could fall from third to eighth in the blink of an eye. Look for teams to zone in on Mitchell, so if he’s able to respond the Jazz should be just fine."

4. New Orleans Pelicans

"Yes, they lost Cousins and Rondo, but the core of Anthony Davis and Jrue Holiday should leave New Orleans fans excited. Davis will be possibly the best player here very soon, who’s to say next year isn’t his year?"

5. Denver Nuggets

"This team was one game out of the playoffs and only three games out of the five seed last year. While other teams got worse, this team is looking to play the year at full health. Having Paul Millsap for an extra 35 games should definitely leave the Nuggets three or four wins higher than last year."

6. Oklahoma City Thunder

"They resigned Paul George and find themselves way over the salary cap. Other than that, what else has made the Thunder relevant? This team has the talent with George and Russell Westbrook, but will it translate?"

7. Minnesota Timberwolves

"Trouble up north? Jimmy Butler has voiced his frustration with Karl Anthony-Towns’ immaturity and lack of work ethic. Signs do not look good for the Timberwolves long-term, but they still have the talent to be a fourth through eighth seed."

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8. Portland Trail Blazers

"Just like the other spots in the west outside of the top two. The Trailblazers have the talent to be the three seed, but with rumors circulating about Los Angeles keying in on a Damian Lillard trade, I can’t put them higher than eight."

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