MEMPHIS — After surrendering 122 points in a stunning loss to the Clippers, forward Paul Millsap matter-of-factly expressed his confidence that the Nuggets will improve defensively down the stretch.
“Trust me, we will get better on the defensive end,” Millsap said following his first game back from a three-month absence due to wrist surgery.
Millsap’s presence, of course, is a primary reason for optimism. He was an NBA all-defensive second-team selection in 2016. And he was particularly active in Tuesday’s first half against the Clippers, covering ground on the floor and blocking two shots.
“Hopefully (Millsap) has an impact on our other players,” coach Michael Malone said at Friday’s shootaround at FedEx Forum prior to the Nuggets’ game against the Grizzlies.