Julian Strawther has been on a bit of a heater for the last two-plus weeks. His recent run couldn't have come at a better time for the Nuggets, who will be without up-and-coming young star Peyton Watson for at least the next four weeks while he recovers from a grade 2 hamstring strain. Just another in a long line of terrible luck for the Nuggets.
Over his last eight games, Strawther, the third-year wing from Gonzaga, is averaging 10.5 points per game, including one 20-pointer and two games with 15. He's been hitting big buckets and rebounding well, too, collecting a career-high eight against the Pistons. Plus, his defense has been decent, averaging just over one steal per game. And, he hasn't been turning the ball over, either.
Per Bennett Durando, this is the sixth time this season, that a rotation player will be missing more than three plus weeks consecutively. Simply incredible, and not in a good way. The only silver lining to the constant injury problem has been the development of the young bench players, like Strawther and Watson.
Strawther's likely going to see an increased workload, especially in the interim. Not only is Watson out, but so is Spencer Jones. Jones suffered a concussion in the double-OT loss to the Knicks and has entered the concussion protocol. Aaron Gordon remains out, and Cam Johnson is still questionable, but at least he's been upgraded. Until those four players are back to full strength, Strawther will be leaned on to fill P-Wat's shoes.
More chances for Adelman to tinker with the rotations
Another running theme this season has been David Adelman's ability to get the most out of his rotations each night. He's been masterful in creating the best matchups, and it's a big reason the Nuggets are still in the race for second place in the ever-tightening Western Conference playoff standings. He's really making the case for Coach of the Year.
The Nuggets are still the second-best scoring team at 120.1 points per game, and they have the highest offensive rating, too. They're 33-19, and only 2.5 games back of the two-spot.
When Cam Johnson returns to the rotation, it will just be another cog in the wheel to see what spins the Nuggets best. Adelman's been able to get wins from his squad consistently when even four or five starters have been out. That's some impressive coaching. Hopefully, it's enough to see him garner some postseason praise.