NBA 2018-19: Can the Denver Nuggets stay on top of the Western Conference?
The Denver Nuggets are one of the most surprising teams this season. They've exceeded expectations and fought their way to the top. They are currently first in the Western Conference. The Nuggets have a record of 28-12. They have a one and a half game lead over the Golden State Warriors.
The Warriors will likely stay towards the top of the West but so will the Nuggets. If anything, the Nuggets could keep their lead. Or, the Nuggets and Warriors could battle for the first spot. The Nuggets are a talented team capable of competing. I expect them to do so.
The Nuggets being on top of the Western Conference is a big stride from last year. Last year, they were 9th in the Western Conference. They were just shy of making the playoffs. They finished the season with a record of 46-36. Their record was impressive enough to make the playoffs, but the Minnesota Timberwolves became the 8th seed. The Timberwolves lost to the Houston Rockets in a five-game series.
Denver is on a two-game winning streak. They beat the Miami Heat on Tuesday and the Clippers on Thursday. Jamal Murray led the Nuggets with 23 points. He was one of six players to score in double figures. Their next game is against the Phoenix Suns.
Jamal Murray is one of the Nuggets' key players. He averages 18.5 points, 5.0 assists, and 4.6 rebounds. The Nuggets also have another player crucial to their success. His nickname is the 'Joker' and he's putting the NBA on notice.
Nikola Jokic is making a name for himself. He averages 19.2 points and 10.2 rebounds. Jokic is a 7-ft, 250 pound center with an array of offensive skills. He's an exceptional passer that can also can play with his back to the basket. He can also shoot from the outside. Jokic is like a point guard in a center's body. He recently picked up his 21st career triple-double against the Clippers. He had 18 points, 14 rebounds, and 10 assists.
Murray and Jokic have helped the Nuggets become first in the Western Conference. They've helped the Nuggets become one of the surprise teams of the season. Can the Nuggets stay at the top of the West? Although it will be difficult, it is still a possibility. If Murray and Jokic play well, it makes it that much easier.