Denver Nuggets: Takeaways from game against the Lakers
Denver Nuggets Defeated But Can Win The War.
Alas, the Denver Nuggets are no longer amongst the NBA’s unbeaten teams. Experiencing defeat (121-114) for the first time this season against the Los Angeles Lakers.
The annoying thing about this loss is that the Denver Nuggets could have won this game. Especially with the Nuggets leading with just minutes left to go in the 4th quarter.
So, what was the reason for this loss and what can the Denver Nuggets takeaway from this game going forward?
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First of all, this annoying loss which rudely interrupted the Denver Nuggets winning streak will likely help them in the long run as a loss can often be more motivating than a win.
It’s fair to expect coach Malone and his staff to pore over the game tape from last night, so as to correct the mistakes made by the Denver Nuggets moving forward.
Defense Anyone?
Before the preseason even began, one of my articles argued that Denver’s defense was the real key to the Denver Nuggets doing significantly better than last year. With the Denver Nuggets record being 4-1 and ranking 2nd in the NBA for defense so far it’s fair to say the article was accurate.
However, last night the Denver Nuggets showed their defense was still a work in progress. First of all, so far this season Denver’s defense tends to wind down in the 4th quarter. With a roster as deep as Denver’s this might be something for coach Malone to consider.
Moreover, a distinction has to be made between playing some defense (which Denver did last night and against the Kings) and dominating a team defensively. Last night’s game was close all the way through with the Lakers shooting 50% from the field and 34.5% from three.
However, the above numbers are virtually identical compared to the last time these two teams matched up against each other.
A big difference that jumps of the page when comparing the stats from those two games, is turnovers. Last night, the Nuggets committed 19 turnovers to the Lakers 13.
In a game that was decided by just 7 points. Especially one where the Nuggets were mostly ahead, it could be argued that turnovers were the difference in the game. Whether a lack of communication, player movement or just impatience is at fault, the Nuggets must overcome their turnover troubles quickly in order to avoid beating themselves out of valuable games that they should win.
Denver’ Shooting From Deep
Lastly, although elite defense is an important piece of becoming a championship caliber team, a team’s offense is the equivalent of a K.O. in boxing. The best case scenario for the Nuggets is that they maintain their potent offense from last season whilst displaying an improved defense simultaneously.
The final big reason Denver lost is because the Nuggets struggled from 3. On the bright side, Denver still managed 114 points.
The only Nugget to shoot well from deep was Monte Morris who was 2-2 from deep.
Once again there is plenty of cause for optimism after a Nuggets loss. Once again, the goals the Denver Nuggets set for themselves will play a huge role in shaping their season.
Another thing that will be key for the Denver Nuggets is their competitiveness.
The NBA is home to the best basketball players on earth. The Nuggets have a roster capable of competing with the best of the other 29 NBA teams.
If the Denver can go out and compete like they indeed are amongst the NBA’s best, this season will be one to remember for Nuggets fans everywhere.