The Nuggets are going through an identity crisis that they’re more than happy to indulge.
For three years under coach Michael Malone, the Nuggets (20-9) had rolled out defensive outfits that ranked 23rd, 29th, and 25th, respectively, in the NBA. In general, it was their offense that had kept them afloat.
But this season, the first-place Nuggets owe their success to the defensive end where they rank fourth in the league. The offense, ranked ninth, hasn’t come close to its potential as a result of injuries and yet it hasn’t derailed any postseason aspirations whatsoever.
Forward Mason Plumlee has been a defensive stalwart regardless of if he starts or comes off the bench.