JaMychal Green quietly solving early Denver Nuggets shortcomings

Defense

One of the roughest factors in Denver’s start was the desertion of defense, as previous Mike Malone teams have featured sturdy defenders to accompany superstars Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray.

There was speculation that opposing buckets would come easier after the Nuggets lost wing-stoppers Grant and Torrey Craig in the offseason.

However, this start likely surpassed even Malone’s worst nightmares.

Throughout the first four games, the Nuggets surrendered a putrid 120.3 points per contest, with both the starters and bench leaving much to be desired on this end.

Yet, once Green returned, the defense improved notably, as he provided a steadying force while playing minutes with starters and reserves alike.

Green has guarded the big, athletic players that 35-year-old Paul Millsap now struggles with, while providing some much-needed post defense alongside a small second-unit.

As a result, Denver has allowed just 110.2 points per contest since Green’s return.