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Denver Nuggets: Early chance to best Golden State

By James Siegle

DENVER, CO - FEBRUARY 03: Jamal Murray #27 of the Denver Nuggets and Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors battle for a loose ball at Pepsi Center on February 3, 2018 in Denver, Colorado. 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 Jamie Schwaberow/Getty Images)
DENVER, CO - FEBRUARY 03: Jamal Murray #27 of the Denver Nuggets and Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors battle for a loose ball at Pepsi Center on February 3, 2018 in Denver, Colorado. 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 Jamie Schwaberow/Getty Images) /
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The Denver Nuggets proved themselves a match-up problem for Golden State, posting a 2-2 record last year against the champs.

The Nuggets face an early test versus the top dogs. On October 21, Steph Curry and Golden State visit the Pepsi Center as Denver’s third opponent.

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Many experts believe Denver’s 2018-19 success hinges on a strong start. One way to kick things off in style?

Dispatch the first two sub-par squads, and then knock off Golden State to cap a 3-0 start.

Last year, Denver beat the Warriors twice, including a 96-81 thrashing in California. The Nuggets give Golden State fits…even if this isn’t publicized.

Every team has problematic opponents (the Nuggets struggled to an 0-4 record against Houston last year). Denver plays the role of Golden State’s kryptonite.

The Nuggets could shock the champs again in October. Murray and Harris will have their hands full with Steph and Klay. But Denver’s talented back court is maturing…this is a great chance for the tandem to prove itself.

Meanwhile, Torrey Craig will either start or play big minutes from the bench. He will spearhead the handling of Durant, with help from Millsap and Barton.

Jokic may experience trouble with Cousins….except Boogie isn’t expected back from injury. Advantage Denver. The Joker could potentially wreak havoc in the post. Which Warrior is capable of stopping him?

If Denver maintains sanity on defense, and runs crisp offense through Jokic, the home squad can steal the victory. They can pull the October upset at Pepsi Center, tapping into an early source of quick-infused confidence.

In today’s league…beating Golden State gives you ample shot at anyone.

From a playoff standpoint, consider Denver’s positioning. All signs point to a postseason return. Yet, home-court advantage is doubtful. A six-through-eight seeding is the probable scenario.

It isn’t entirely unlikely that Denver pairs off with the Warriors. And this might not be the worst situation. Definitely the favorable match-up to Houston…

The Nuggets may not win this seven-game series. But they can create a stir.

Let’s simulate this standoff. If Denver steals an early game on the road, this would be huge. Then the series travels to the Mile High tied at one.

The Nuggets should nab one of these home matches.  This series is subsequently knotted at two games apiece.

Golden State would likely win Game 5 to take a 3-2 lead. But Denver could pull out Game 6 at home.

Suddenly, Golden State faces elimination with a decisive Game 7. Certainly not their desired scenario in the first round.

Next. Top 10 Denver Nuggets of all time. dark

Bottom line…Denver certainly isn’t Golden State’s preferred opponent. Someday, the Nuggets may play spoilers to this dynasty.

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