Denver Nuggets' 4-game losing streak: Bored of winning?
The Denver Nuggets were soaring high with one of the NBA's best records this season, boasting a remarkable 46-19 record before playing the Chicago Bulls on March 9. However, their fate has taken a turn for the worse as they have since suffered four consecutive losses.
This dismal performance has sparked concerns from all corners, with many speculating that the team has either hit a rough patch or worse still, grown complacent with their previous victories.
In their last four games, the team have taken a serious hit in their defensive rankings, landing them in a lowly 30th position. This lackluster display has created a perception that the team has gone soft or lost their commitment to the game.
Despite this, the Nuggets boast a talented squad, with their star player Nikola Jokic currently a top contender alongside Joel Embiid for the prestigious MVP award. Jokic has been a driving force for the team's success this season, averaging a triple-double with his incredible playmaking skills.
"The advanced numbers show Nikola Jokić is the 5th greatest defender ever. With respect to Defensive +/- Embiid is a better defender. ... Jordan, Harden & Kobe are the only 3 guys who've averaged more PPG in a season since the merger than Joel Embiid is this yr." — @getnickwright https://t.co/OOuesh1jGR
However, the Nuggets will need every player to bring their "A" game to turn things around. They will need to tighten their defense and and be more aggressive.
After their 125-110 loss at the Toronto Raptors on Tuesday, Nuggets coach Michael Malone shared his thoughts on the team's performance:
"Maybe we've got a little soft with success. I think we are showing up thinking we're going to be alright. I think this is a tremendous opportunity for us. I love the fact we're facing adversity, 'cause I am going to find out a lot about guys in that locker room. Right now, we are in chill mode, and you can't be in chill mode with 13 games to go in the season."
What's even more concerning about the Nuggets' recent losses is the caliber of teams they've been losing to. The Chicago Bulls, who are 11th in the Eastern Conference, are fighting for a spot in the play-in tournament.
The San Antonio Spurs, with a mere 18 wins this season and a winning percentage of 0.261, hold the third-worst record in the league. The Nets have gone 7-10 since the Kyrie Irving trade, and the Raptors are in the play-in position in ninth in the East.
Michael Malone: "I love the fact we're facing adversity because I'm going to find out a lot about the guys in that locker room. I'm here. I'm going to be here today, tomorrow, the day after. I ain't going anywhere. I'm going to find some guys that are ready to fight with me." https://t.co/HV2qUlIwLH
As the Nuggets hit the road for their next few games, they must regain their winning level of play and re-establish their confidence heading into the playoffs. A strong performance in these upcoming games could provide a much-needed boost for the team as they aim to make a deep run in the postseason.
Furthermore, Nikola Jokic will be eager to maintain his lead over Joel Embiid in the MVP race. Embiid and the Philadelphia 76ers are on a roll, with a six-game winning streak and Embiid averaging a league-leading 33.5 points per game.
Jokic must step up his game and lead the Nuggets to victories to secure his third consecutive MVP award.