DENVER – Nuggets coach Michael Malone watched James Harden isolate one of his centers, as he had all night, and could barely stand the sight any longer. Harden destroyed Mason Plumlee with a series of moves until he flew by in a blur, prompting Malone to flop back in his seat and stare toward the rafters as in search of guidance.
Having been twice burned badly by the Rockets' flamethrowers at the 3-point line in the previous meetings, Malone had to try something different, going with a switching defense that kept defenders on shooters. That, however, was like sending Harden an invitation to torture him.