As the 2024-2025 season approaches, the Denver Nuggets have suffered their second consecutive defeat against the Boston Celtics, losing 130-104 at Etihad Arena. This notable loss comes amidst high expectations for a successful season after the team failed to reach the NBA Finals last year. Let’s highlight some key points from this game.
1. Challenges in Team Depth
The game revealed that the depth of the Denver Nuggets’ roster was tested with the absence of Aaron Gordon and Michael Porter Jr. This opened opportunities for Julian Strawther and Vlatko Cancar to join Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray in the starting lineup. However, similar to the preseason opener, Murray and Jokic did not play in the second half, which affected the team’s stability. The absence of seasoned players like Russell Westbrook and DeAndre Jordan added further pressure on the younger players.
2. Nikola Jokic’s Performance
Nikola Jokic remained the only bright spot for Denver, scoring 20 points in just 19 minutes with a shooting percentage of 7/13, including two three-pointers. He also contributed seven rebounds and three assists, showcasing his versatility and playmaking ability. Nevertheless, the lack of support from teammates made it difficult for him to lead the team to victory.
3. Opportunities for Young Talent
With Murray sitting out the second half, Denver took the opportunity to experiment with young players. Jalen Pickett, despite scoring only 1 point in 17 minutes, showed potential with three assists. Meanwhile, Trey Alexander scored 12 points, and Jahmir Young finished with 8 points from 6 attempts. These players need to quickly prove their capabilities to secure spots on the main roster.
Conclusion
The loss to the Boston Celtics is not just a simple defeat; it is an opportunity for the Denver Nuggets to reassess their lineup and identify the best options for the upcoming season. As the official season draws near, maximizing the potential of young players will be crucial. Hopefully, with the right adjustments, the Denver Nuggets can navigate this challenging phase and return stronger in the future.
