Denver Nuggets
The Nuggets have been transformed under George Karl. They’re playing great basketball at both ends of the floor. Offensively, they are moving without the ball better – especially Carmelo Anthony, who is no longer “catching and holding,” as Karl likes to say. Anthony shot close to 50 percent after Karl’s arrival (40 percent beforehand).
As a team, the Nuggets have improved their shooting dramatically, with Wesley Person performing well and Voshon Lenard back after his Achilles injury. Defensively, they’re tough. Marcus Camby is underrated and can control games with his shot blocking. Eduardo Najera has given the Nuggets a rugged, charge-taking rebounder who sticks his nose in every play. And with Nene and Kenyon Martin in the frontcourt, Denver is big and athletic.
Denver has suddenly become a scrappy team that loves to get out and run. It has been the hottest team in the league since the All-Star break. Unfortunately for the Nuggets, they drew the short end of the stick in the playoff pairings. They’ll play San Antonio in a matchup that would be worthy of a West finals showdown. The Nuggets have the talent and the confidence to pull off the upset, but they’d rather be playing anyone but the Spurs.
Prediction: Eliminated by San Antonio in first round.
Vs
San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs would love to have started the playoffs six weeks ago when they were healthy, confident and dominant. Now they’re a bit unsure of themselves as they enter the postseason with plenty of questions. Can Tim Duncan hold up, and will he find his rhythm after a lengthy absence? Is Rasho Nesterovic healthy? Can the bench overcome the loss of Devin Brown?
On the bright side, while Duncan was out, Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili elevated their games and are more confident than ever. And Brent Barry has come on and played well after a slow start to the season.
The Spurs face a harrowing first-round matchup with Denver, one of the hottest teams in the NBA. If they can slip past the Nuggets, it should be clear sailing to the conference finals for the Spurs because Seattle and Sacramento can’t handle them.
I believe San Antonio is still the team to beat in the West because of Duncan and its terrific defense. But the Spurs are vulnerable.
Prediction: West champions.