Denver Nuggets
Role Player
See what's going on with your Denver Nuggets.
News Nuggets Team Notes
- Thread starter Denver Nuggets
- Start date
Denver Nuggets
Role Player
Michael Malone Reveals His Thoughts On Rumored NBA Rule Change
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/michael-malone-reveals-his-thoughts-on-rumored-nba-rule-change/
(Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
On Wednesday, NBA commissioner Adam Silver got people talking when he said he liked the idea of 10-minute quarters in the league.
He claimed that having shorter quarters would help the NBA be more like the rest of the global basketball community and would also be better for television audiences.
Many people spoke about that idea, including Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone.
While talking to Stefan Bondy, Malone made his thoughts very clear.
The 10-minute quarter isn’t the only potential change the league has been looking at.
Because of lagging ratings, Silver and his team have been contemplating how to enthuse the audience and drive higher viewership.
They have toyed with the idea of tweaking rules around three-point shots too, because many people feel the excess of threes has hurt the game.
Malone doesn’t sound keen on any of those concepts, thinking that the NBA would make a mistake by trying to win over viewers instead of just focusing on making a good product for fans.
Taking two minutes off of each quarter would definitely be better for television networks that air the games, but would it really help the quality of modern basketball?
Silver has his work cut out for him with his quest to improve the sport, and he should expect to hear pushback from fans, players, and coaches at every step of the way.
The post Michael Malone Reveals His Thoughts On Rumored NBA Rule Change appeared first on The Cold Wire.
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/michael-malone-reveals-his-thoughts-on-rumored-nba-rule-change/
Denver Nuggets
Role Player
Nuggets Fans Had 2-Word Chant While Blowing Out Sixers
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/nuggets-fans-had-2-word-chant-while-blowing-out-sixers/
(Photo by Max Paro/Getty Images)
It’s been six years since Denver Nuggets fans have watched Joel Embiid play at Mile High.
Whether it’s due to his constant injuries or load management, the Philadelphia 76ers superstar hasn’t played against Nikola Jokic in Denver since 2019.
That’s why Nuggets fans made the most of the opportunity to troll Embiid, by asking ‘Where’s Embiid’ while their team blew out the Sixers (via Legion Hoops).
Nuggets fans are chanting “Where’s Embiid?” while up 30 points over the Sixers
Oh man… pic.twitter.com/06mcVVywXk
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) January 22, 2025
Not so long ago, there was a heated and never-ending debate about whether Embiid or Jokic was better and who should receive the MVP.
By now, there shouldn’t even be a debate anymore.
Of course, Embiid is a great player, and his talents and skills rank near the top, but availability is a big part of the job, and it’s become painfully evident that he’s never going to be healthy.
Also, while he may have had an edge in the defensive department, Jokic has made big strides on that end of the floor again.
Jokic keeps improving and works hard to improve his conditioning and stay in shape, which has also been a recurring issue with Embiid.
If they were both fully healthy, perhaps there could be some sort of argument again.
But it seems like Embiid will never play a full season or be healthy come playoff time.
At this rate, it wouldn’t even be much of a surprise to see him walking away from the game while still being young, unfortunately.
The post Nuggets Fans Had 2-Word Chant While Blowing Out Sixers appeared first on The Cold Wire.
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/nuggets-fans-had-2-word-chant-while-blowing-out-sixers/
Denver Nuggets
Role Player
DeAndre Jordan Names Nikola Jokic’s Favorite Song
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/deandre-jordan-names-nikola-jokics-favorite-song/
(Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets doesn’t seem like the most talkative and expressive player in the NBA, but the man apparently has quite a taste in music.
According to DeAndre Jordan, via “Run It Back” and NBACentral, Jokic’s favorite song is “Many Men” by 50 Cent.
Jordan said that Jokic “knows the words from start to finish,” which is quite surprising given Jokic’s soft spoken personality.
Throughout his career, Jokic has been known as someone who doesn’t talk a lot, even during his biggest victories.
The idea of him rapping along to a 50 Cent song sounds unlike him but also incredibly endearing.
What are the chances that he will show off his musical skills sometime in the future?
That sounds unlikely, although he has been caught on video dancing and partying with his teammates and residents from his home country of Serbia in the past.
Jokic has every reason to be singing and dancing this year because he is having another MVP-caliber season.
The big man is averaging 30.6 points, 13.2 rebounds, and 9.9 assists per game, shooting 55.5 percent from the field and 47.1 percent from the three-point line.
The Nuggets haven’t been without their struggles, but Jokic has been wildly solid all season.
Jordan has been with the team for three seasons and has grown close to Jokic.
That means he has been able to enjoy performances from him and has seen sides of him that fans never do.
The Nuggets have climbed to the fourth seed in the West, partly because of how great Jokic is.
Many teams and many men have attempted to slow him down, and they have failed.
The post DeAndre Jordan Names Nikola Jokic’s Favorite Song appeared first on The Cold Wire.
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/deandre-jordan-names-nikola-jokics-favorite-song/
Denver Nuggets
Role Player
Mike Malone Sends Clear Message About Nuggets After Friday’s Win
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/mike-malone-sends-clear-message-about-nuggets-after-fridays-win/
(Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
The Denver Nuggets have been up and down this season.
Nevertheless, they still have been must-watch television.
That’s because they have arguably the best player in the world.
Nikola Jokic is posting the best numbers of his career and could end up averaging a triple-double for a full season.
Curiously, he now happens to share the court with the all-time leader in triple-doubles, teammate Russell Westbrook.
That’s why Nuggets head coach Mike Malone recently referred to the History Channel after both of his stars logged triple-doubles in the same game again.
The Nuggets have needed every single point, rebound and assist from both Jokic and Westbrook to stay afloat amid a complicated season.
Aaron Gordon has struggled with injuries, and Jamal Murray has looked like a shell of himself for most of the campaign.
Michael Porter Jr. has not made much of a leap and might be closer to a finished product at this point in his career.
Westbrook, however, has been a breath of fresh air.
He’s been the team’s catalyst, whether off the bench or starting, giving them a never-ending source of energy and someone to rely on when it matters the most.
The Nuggets are still Jokic’s team, and he’s by far their best player.
But with Murray regressing and not living up to the expectations after their championship-winning season, Westbrook may have become the sidekick the big man so clearly needed.
The post Mike Malone Sends Clear Message About Nuggets After Friday’s Win appeared first on The Cold Wire.
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/mike-malone-sends-clear-message-about-nuggets-after-fridays-win/
Denver Nuggets
Role Player
Nuggets Have Impressive Record With Russell Westbrook As A Starter
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/nuggets-have-impressive-record-with-russell-westbrook-as-a-starter/
(Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)
When Russell Westbrook came to the Denver Nuggets in the summer, most fans assumed he’d mostly spend his time as a part of the second unit.
Westbrook has grown accustomed to coming off the bench over the last few years with the Los Angeles Lakers and Clippers.
And while he has only started in 11 of 32 games this season, he has done an awful lot for the Nuggets during those games.
According to Bleacher Report, the Nuggets have a 9-2 record with Westbrook as a starter.
Does this mean he will remain part of the starting five for the rest of the season?
Russ making a difference in Denver
pic.twitter.com/2VchsvUKW2
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) January 2, 2025
Westbrook is posting 12.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 6.6 assists per game in 2024-25.
Yes, that is a considerable step down from what he produced a few seasons ago, but Westbrook’s role has changed.
He was once the biggest star for his teams but now he has become more of a roleplayer, someone who is placed on the floor to facilitate and complement other players.
Westbrook still makes his fair share of mistakes and fans continue to complain about inconsistency, but his impact on the Nuggets is obvious.
The team has faced a number of troubles this season but they have now won three in a row.
Unsurprisingly, Westbrook has been a starter in all three of those games.
The Nuggets’ roster could change in the weeks ahead because of trades, so Westbrook might be spending more time on the bench.
Then again, head coach Michael Malone may choose to keep him as a starter because of this impressive record.
The post Nuggets Have Impressive Record With Russell Westbrook As A Starter appeared first on The Cold Wire.
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/nuggets-have-impressive-record-with-russell-westbrook-as-a-starter/
Denver Nuggets
Role Player
Nikola Jokic Made NBA History On Wednesday
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/nikola-jokic-made-nba-history-on-wednesday/
(Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
The Denver Nuggets got a big win to start the year.
Mike Malone’s team was at its best when they hosted the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday night.
They led by as many as 27 points in a 139-120 win, even posting two 40+ point quarters.
Unsurprisingly, it all had to do with Nikola Jokic’s stellar performance.
As shown by Opta STATS on X, the Serbian big man became the very first player in NBA history to record at least 15 points, 15 rebounds, and 15 assists in a game while playing less than 30 minutes.
Jokic finished the game with 23 points, 17 boards, 15 assists, one block, and one three-pointer on 50% from the floor.
Moreover, he needed just 29 minutes to do all of his damage.
The Nuggets have now won three games in a row, and they’re getting some much-needed momentum after an inconsistent start to the season.
Mike Malone’s team currently has a 19-13 record and is ranked fourth in the Western Conference.
Jokic has played at an MVP level, averaging a career-high 30.7 points, with 13.0 rebounds and 9.7 assists per game on 56.1% shooting and 49.2% from beyond the arc.
He’s just shy of averaging a triple-double for the season, which is something unheard of for a big man.
The Nuggets have been linked with Zach LaVine and other players in an attempt to bolster their roster before the trade deadline.
Nonetheless, if they keep this strong momentum and find their usual rhythm again, it wouldn’t be shocking to see them stay put and double down on their commitment to their championship run.
The post Nikola Jokic Made NBA History On Wednesday appeared first on The Cold Wire.
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/nikola-jokic-made-nba-history-on-wednesday/
Denver Nuggets
Role Player
Jamal Murray Speaks Out About Criticism Surrounding Him
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/jamal-murray-speaks-out-about-criticism-surrounding-him/
(Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)
The Denver Nuggets have been up and down this season.
They haven’t been the same dominant team of old, and they don’t look like a legitimate championship contender right now.
That’s despite Nikola Jokic playing the best basketball of his career and at an MVP level.
That’s why multiple fans and analysts have taken jabs at Jamal Murray instead.
Murray got off to a slow start to the season, and he was banged up and far from his best in the Olympics as well.
That narrative hasn’t changed much so far.
With that in mind, he shrugged and snubbed his critics, stating that everybody who’s followed the team knows what he’s capable of (via Rachel Strand).
Murray has been one of the league’s best playoff performers for years.
He’s always stepped up in big moments, and he’s never been afraid to take big shots.
Then again, it’s also a fact that he’s not meeting expectations.
He’s making top dollar but not playing like a top-caliber player.
While he might be able to take a leap forward in the postseason, his team could use a little more from him right now as well.
The Nuggets have been tangled up in multiple trade rumors over the past few weeks.
Michael Porter Jr. seems like the potential odd man out in trade talks.
But even if they did move him, Murray’s contributions will likely make or break this team’s season.
The post Jamal Murray Speaks Out About Criticism Surrounding Him appeared first on The Cold Wire.
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/jamal-murray-speaks-out-about-criticism-surrounding-him/
Denver Nuggets
Role Player
Fans React To Jamal Murray’s Career-Best Performance On Wednesday
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/fans-react-to-jamal-murrays-career-best-performance-on-wednesday/
(Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images)
Jamal Murray of the Denver Nuggets just couldn’t be stopped during Wednesday’s game against the Portland Trail Blazers.
He posted an eye-popping and career-best stat line of 55 points, four rebounds, and five assists, shooting 7-of-15 from beyond the three-point line.
According to NBA on ESPN, that was his fourth game with 50 points and seven made three-pointers.
That is more than all other Nuggets combined and earned him a spot in team history.
Unsurprisingly, Denver followers came out in droves online to shower Murray with praise.
CAREER-HIGH IN THE MILE HIGH CITY
Jamal Murray records his 4th 50-point and 7-3PM, more than all other Nuggets combined (2)pic.twitter.com/YT1KMxVp3S
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) February 13, 2025
Many people called him a “true superstar,” and others were already referring to him as a “Denver Legend.”
People are noting that the Nuggets are doing very well right now, and they say Murray is a huge part of their surge.
After a rough start to the season, Denver is now the third-best team in the Western Conference and looks like true playoff contenders again.
For his part, Murray is averaging 21.0 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 6.1 assists on 47.1 percent from the field and 37.5 percent from the three-point line.
“The nuggets looking scary,” one fan said, and all Nuggets supporters agree with that.
Murray has received some criticism over the last year, but he played terrifically on Wednesday night.
The Nuggets don’t have as deep a roster as they once did, and there are still worries about how far they can go in the postseason.
But if Murray plays like this more often and Nikola Jokic continues to put up his monster totals, there is a good chance they could be one of the scariest teams in the West when the playoffs get started.
The post Fans React To Jamal Murray’s Career-Best Performance On Wednesday appeared first on The Cold Wire.
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/fans-react-to-jamal-murrays-career-best-performance-on-wednesday/
Denver Nuggets
Role Player
Nikola Jokic Made NBA History On Wednesday
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/nikola-jokic-made-nba-history-on-wednesday-2/
(Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
The Denver Nuggets beat the Portland Trail Blazers on Wednesday and Nikola Jokic was a huge part of the win.
He scored 26 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists in the 132-121 victory, earning him yet another triple-double.
According to NBA History, that was Jokic’s 25th triple-double of the season.
That means he has become the third player ever to have 25+ triple-doubles in three seasons, joining just Russell Westbrook, who did it four times, and Oscar Robertson, who did it three times as well.
What a season it’s been for Jokic, who is averaging 29.8 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 10.2 assists.
That surpasses his numbers from last year, when he was putting up 26.4 points, 12.4 rebounds, and 9.0 assists.
That was good enough for him to win MVP yet again, so why isn’t he the frontrunner for that prize in 2024-25?
It’s partly because of voter fatigue but also because Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is having an explosive season and receiving the most attention.
But that doesn’t bother Jokic, because he is playing consistently great basketball and his Nuggets are doing better because of it.
When the season started, people were worried about the team because they weren’t playing well.
But devoted fans told everyone to be patient and keep their faith in Jokic and his leadership.
Sure enough, that has paid off, and the Nuggets are now the third-best team in the West with a 36-19 record.
At this point, no one should be surprised when Jokic puts up numbers like this night after night.
Now people are wondering how many more triple-doubles he can earn before the season is over.
The post Nikola Jokic Made NBA History On Wednesday appeared first on The Cold Wire.
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/nikola-jokic-made-nba-history-on-wednesday-2/
Denver Nuggets
Role Player
Nikola Jokic Has Honest Admission About Nuggets’ Struggles
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/nikola-jokic-has-honest-admission-about-nuggets-struggles/
(Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
Two years ago, it was almost impossible to envision any team taking down the Denver Nuggets in a seven-game series.
Fast forward to today, and that isn’t the case at all.
This season, they’ve dropped some games they could’ve and should’ve won, and some of their losses have been rather ugly.
Yet, even though they haven’t fared as well as they expected, Nikola Jokic remains optimistic.
Following a tough loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers, the three-time NBA MVP argued that, with the way they’ve played, their 16-13 record should be even worse.
"We are not even close to where we're supposed to be. I think how bad we've played, we're in a good spot."
Nikola Jokic on the Nuggets’ struggles
(via @HarrisonWind)pic.twitter.com/mvJ0nEAudy
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) December 28, 2024
Jokic has arguably been the best player in the league this season.
Even so, his team is sitting seventh in the Western Conference.
He’s had to do most of the heavy lifting on offense, but no one can win on his own at this level.
Jokic has averaged almost a triple-double for the season, but everybody else not named Russell Westbrook has either been injured, inconsistent or both.
The Nuggets have been linked to Zach LaVine of the Chicago Bulls in trade rumors, and there has been some talk circling around Denver’s Michael Porter Jr.
Mike Malone’s team lost some of its key players from their championship team, and they haven’t been able to replace them.
It’s still early in the season, and they should have time to right the ship.
But with the NBA trade deadline approaching, they cannot rest on their laurels much longer.
The post Nikola Jokic Has Honest Admission About Nuggets’ Struggles appeared first on The Cold Wire.
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/nikola-jokic-has-honest-admission-about-nuggets-struggles/
Denver Nuggets
Role Player
Nikola Jokic Reveals Who Won The Luka Doncic Trade
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/nikola-jokic-reveals-who-won-the-luka-doncic-trade/
(Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
Anthony Davis is one of the best players in NBA history.
As such, one would expect fans from any team that gets him to be ecstatic.
That’s why when you see that the fans are livid at GM Nico Harrison for going after him, you can only wonder if the Dallas Mavericks made the right decision.
However, when asked about that trade, Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic thinks that both teams won the transaction (via Legion Hoops & Duvalier Johnson).
Of course, Jokic isn’t known for giving thorough answers or caring that much about anything that goes on around the league, so chances are he was just giving a generic answer and looking forward to moving on with his day.
Luka Doncic is six years younger than Anthony Davis, who also happened to get hurt during his Mavs debut.
The Mavericks only got one first-round pick in return for the face of their franchise, which also happened to be the guy they built their entire roster around.
Davis, as great a player as he is, has struggled with injuries during his career.
Even if the Mavs needed to get bigger and better on defense, it’s hard to believe they couldn’t have gotten much more from any other team.
Only time will tell, and everybody could be wrong about this move, but until proven otherwise, the Lakers are the clear-cut winners of this controversial transaction.
The post Nikola Jokic Reveals Who Won The Luka Doncic Trade appeared first on The Cold Wire.
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/nikola-jokic-reveals-who-won-the-luka-doncic-trade/
Denver Nuggets
Role Player
Stephen A. Smith Warns Lakers To Avoid Nuggets In Playoffs
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/stephen-a-smith-warns-lakers-to-avoid-nuggets-in-playoffs/
(Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
The Los Angeles Lakers were part of the biggest NBA trade in years and there is a great deal of excitement around them, but do they have what it takes to stop the Denver Nuggets in the playoffs?
Stephen A. Smith doesn’t think so, and he believes history will repeat itself if they face off in the postseason.
Speaking on “First Take,” Smith said the Lakers are “going home” if they battle the Nuggets in the opening round of the playoffs.
He recommended LA do everything they can to avoid seeing Nikola Jokic and his squad in the postseason.
"[If the Lakers] get Denver in the first round again, they're going home."@stephenasmith says the Lakers should "do everything they can" to avoid playing the Nuggets in the playoffs
pic.twitter.com/bUKhK7J8vi
— First Take (@FirstTake) February 19, 2025
Any loyal Lakers fan would completely agree with Smith.
The Nuggets have had LA’s number for years and have defeated them multiple times in the playoffs and regular season.
A few years ago, the Lakers made it to the Western Conference Finals but were dismantled by the Nuggets.
Last season, they once again couldn’t muster the strength to get past Denver.
Again and again, the Nuggets have shown they have what it takes to stop the Lakers.
Of course, things have changed in LA recently and they now have Luka Doncic.
That will help their offensive output, but it could hurt the Lakers on defense, especially since Anthony Davis is gone.
That means the Lakers could have an even tougher time against Jokic and his team.
A Doncic-Jokic showdown would definitely pump up excitement and television ratings but it could be very bad news for the Lakers.
LA’s postseason odds haven’t been this strong in a long time but their fans are still very afraid of the Nuggets.
The post Stephen A. Smith Warns Lakers To Avoid Nuggets In Playoffs appeared first on The Cold Wire.
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/stephen-a-smith-warns-lakers-to-avoid-nuggets-in-playoffs/
Denver Nuggets
Role Player
Nikola Jokic Admits He Never Eats At 1 Fast Food Restaurant
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/nikola-jokic-admits-he-never-eats-at-1-fast-food-restaurant/
(Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
The story of Nikola Jokić’s NBA draft moment reads like a comedy sketch – his selection by the Denver Nuggets as the 41st overall pick was upstaged by a Taco Bell commercial.
Back in 2014, no one could have predicted that this overlooked Serbian prospect would evolve into a three-time MVP and future Hall of Famer.
Yet while Jokić has proven every doubter wrong, he still maintains a playful beef with the fast-food chain.
That peculiar draft night moment – his name merely flashing across the screen during a Taco Bell ad – has become legendary NBA lore.
As Jokić’s star continued to rise, this quirky detail only grew more fascinating.
In a recent clip from the documentary Court of Gold, the Serbian superstar addressed the infamous Taco Bell connection with his characteristic dry humor.
Jokic says he has never eaten Taco Bell because of draft nighthttps://t.co/gk6ir1vty8 pic.twitter.com/WfwRxWV2ih
— Adam Mares (@Adam_Mares) February 22, 2025
While Taco Bell accidentally claimed his draft spotlight, Jokić was quietly building something special.
His journey has been remarkable – from those humble beginnings to multiple MVP awards and leading the Denver Nuggets to their first NBA championship in 2023.
The path to NBA dominance wasn’t just about developing his skills on the court.
Early in his career, Jokić faced fitness challenges, including an astounding daily intake of three liters of Coca-Cola.
Recognizing the need for change, he overhauled his diet, ditching sugary drinks for healthier alternatives.
This transformation helped shape him into one of the league’s most dominant players.
Through it all, Jokić has maintained his trademark wit and self-deprecating sense of humor, taking both his success and that memorable draft night slight in stride while continuing to etch his name in NBA history.
The post Nikola Jokic Admits He Never Eats At 1 Fast Food Restaurant appeared first on The Cold Wire.
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/nikola-jokic-admits-he-never-eats-at-1-fast-food-restaurant/
Denver Nuggets
Role Player
Kendrick Perkins Says Nuggets Are Not Legit Title Contenders
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/kendrick-perkins-says-nuggets-are-not-legit-title-contenders/
(Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)
The NBA playoff picture is slowly taking shape as we inch closer to the postseason, with several teams making their case as legitimate title contenders.
While teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder, Boston Celtics, and Cleveland Cavaliers impress with their consistent play, and the Lakers find their rhythm behind the LeBron-Luka partnership, one reigning power seems oddly absent from championship conversations.
The Denver Nuggets, despite their proven track record, aren’t generating the same title buzz as other contenders.
ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins recently addressed this peculiar situation during NBA Today, offering a blunt assessment of Denver’s championship credentials.
His skepticism stems from Denver’s concerning 14-15 record against winning teams this season.
Perkins highlighted how opposing defenses have adapted to the Nuggets’ approach, employing aggressive double-teams on Nikola Jokić and disrupting passing lanes to force Denver into perimeter shooting.
The Nuggets’ journey this season has been a tale of two chapters.
After stumbling to an 11-10 start through their first 21 games, they’ve found their footing to climb to 39-22 overall, good for second place in the competitive Western Conference.
Jokić, as expected, has been the catalyst behind this turnaround with his MVP-caliber play.
However, their recent matchup against the Lakers exposed potential vulnerabilities in Denver’s system.
Los Angeles appeared to unlock a blueprint for containing Jokić and disrupting Denver’s offensive flow – precisely the concern Perkins aims to highlight for fans and analysts alike.
The post Kendrick Perkins Says Nuggets Are Not Legit Title Contenders appeared first on The Cold Wire.
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/kendrick-perkins-says-nuggets-are-not-legit-title-contenders/
Denver Nuggets
Role Player
Fans React To Russell Westbrook’s Big Performance On Wednesday
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/fans-react-to-russell-westbrooks-big-performance-on-wednesday/
(Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
Russell Westbrook is having a resurgent season with the Denver Nuggets and Wednesday night gave fans a perfect example of why.
Westbrook was everywhere during Denver’s 116-110 win over the Sacramento Kings.
As noted by Legion Hoops, he posted 25 points, five rebounds, three assists, two steals, and two blocks, going 10-of-20 from the field and 4-of-7 from the three-point line.
Westbrook was the Nuggets’ best scorer and most important player, and that says a lot considering Nikola Jokic is his teammate.
Russell Westbrook tonight:
25 points
5 rebounds
3 assists
2 steals
2 blocks
10/20 FG
4/7 3P
Nuggets leading scorerpic.twitter.com/AJ3gjxCnnC
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) March 6, 2025
Online, fans were quick to praise Westbrook and celebrate the fact that he is once again a starter.
He has started in 29 of his 55 games this season, which already surpasses last year with the Los Angeles Clippers when he started in 11 of 68 games.
Westbrook’s output has improved across the board, which is great news for loyal fans who have heard a lot of criticism of him over the years.
There were concerns about him when he came to Denver but he looks and acts very comfortable with his new squad and it shows.
Some people used this performance as a chance to take a dig at both Jamal Murray and Kawhi Leonard.
While Westbrook and his former teammate James Harden are having statement seasons, Murray and Leonard are coming up short, according to some fans.
A lot of people are excited to see Westbrook doing so well, especially for a team that has a shot at winning a championship.
As everyone knows, Westbrook has secured a slew of big trophies and accolades over the years but has never earned a ring.
Could this be the year that changes?
Westbrook is putting up 12.9 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game.
The numbers tell only one part of the story but they sum up how driven Westbrook is this year.
The post Fans React To Russell Westbrook’s Big Performance On Wednesday appeared first on The Cold Wire.
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/fans-react-to-russell-westbrooks-big-performance-on-wednesday/
Denver Nuggets
Role Player
Kevin Durant Reacts To Nikola Jokic’s Historic Achievement
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/kevin-durant-reacts-to-nikola-jokics-historic-achievement/
(Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
The fans were blown away by Nikola Jokic on Friday night as the Denver Nuggets superstar became the first player in history with a 30-20-20 game.
It wasn’t just the fans who were stunned by what they saw, because Kevin Durant was also amazed.
Hours later, he talked about Jokic’s big night and his consistently great games.
“All-time great, man,” Durant added.
Durant added that Jokic will continue to hit career milestones like this because he gets the ball every play and barely ever has a bad game.
It doesn’t matter who he is playing against, Jokic is always a threat.
The fact that he can score so well with points, rebounds, and assists shows that he is a vital part of the Nuggets’ offense, so it’s no surprise that he is often given the ball.
He works incredibly well with all his teammates and has a foresight and floor vision that makes all kinds of amazing plays possible.
He is a real nightmare to defend, as Durant and his Suns learned during Friday’s game.
Still, they kept it close and were able to push the Nuggets into overtime.
But in the end, Jokic was just too overpowering and the Suns were taken down.
At this point, just about every player and team in the NBA has experienced a Jokic masterclass.
Durant and his team were unlucky enough to witness Jokic also make history.
The post Kevin Durant Reacts To Nikola Jokic’s Historic Achievement appeared first on The Cold Wire.
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/kevin-durant-reacts-to-nikola-jokics-historic-achievement/
Denver Nuggets
Role Player
Fans React To Nikola Jokic Making NBA History On Friday
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/fans-react-to-nikola-jokic-making-nba-history-on-friday/
(Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets couldn’t be stopped on Friday night and made history.
He scored 31 points, 21 rebounds, and 22 assists on his way to a 149-141 overtime victory over the Phoenix Suns.
NBA experts were blown away by Jokic because this was the first time in league history that someone had a 30-20-20 game.
Fans of all kinds came out to support and praise Jokic after his legendary game.
VIDEO GAME NUMBERS FOR THE JOKER
Jokic put up the first 30-20-20 game in NBA historypic.twitter.com/E2564ZLLU1
— ESPN (@espn) March 8, 2025
A lot of people noted that even someone playing a video game would have a hard time posting these sorts of numbers.
It really is unheard of and something that many people never expected to see.
Meanwhile, others continue to call Jokic the best player of all time.
That is a debate that will continue to rage, but no one will deny that Jokic is doing things once thought of as impossible.
Others said it is time for Jokic to win his fourth MVP trophy.
Most people feel that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will be named Most Valuable Player this year but there is a growing chorus of fans who feel Jokic should earn that title yet again.
If he is producing such historic stat lines, doesn’t that just make the most sense?
For Jokic, winning another championship is more important than being named MVP.
And right now, his team has a chance, but it won’t be easy.
They are the third seed in the West and hold a 41-22 record.
They might not be at the top of the West, but will still pose a serious threat in the playoffs, especially if Jokic continues to play like the master of the game that he is.
The post Fans React To Nikola Jokic Making NBA History On Friday appeared first on The Cold Wire.
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/fans-react-to-nikola-jokic-making-nba-history-on-friday/
Denver Nuggets
Role Player
Tyrese Haliburton Has Honest Admission About Nikola Jokic
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/tyrese-haliburton-has-honest-admission-about-nikola-jokic/
(Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
For years, no one in the NBA has found a way to stop Nikola Jokic.
Some believe the best way to prevent him from dominating is by taking away his teammates.
Others argue that he has to be forced to pass over and over.
Whatever the case, he clearly can excel at both facets.
That’s why Tyrese Haliburton tipped his hat to him.
When asked about the Serbian superstar, Haliburton claimed that Jokic looks at the game like a puzzle (via NBA):
"He looks at the game like a puzzle he can solve."
"A lot of times it's hard to stop him."
"He's tough. He's cold."
NBA players & coaches sound off about the brilliance of Jokić & SGA as the two faceoff TODAY at 1pm/et on ABCpic.twitter.com/Rn2HYnuScq
— NBA (@NBA) March 9, 2025
Jokic is a unique player.
We had seen something similar with Arvydas Sabonis, but, unfortunately, he was banged up and past his prime when he finally made it to the NBA.
He’s laid the blueprint for the modern big man.
He’s the ultimate triple-threat player, and his ability to knock down shots from all three levels is only topped by his elite court vision and passing ability.
A player his size shouldn’t be able to do what he does with the ball in his hands, and he’s already one of the greatest playmakers this game has ever seen.
Whether he should have won as many MVPs as he has is for the people to debate, but it’s hard to find someone who’s been more impactful, consistent, unique, and difficult to stop than Jokic has been over the past five years or so.
He doesn’t want to be the face of the league, and sometimes it seems like he doesn’t even want to be there, but he’s the most unstoppable force in the game right now.
The post Tyrese Haliburton Has Honest Admission About Nikola Jokic appeared first on The Cold Wire.
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/tyrese-haliburton-has-honest-admission-about-nikola-jokic/
Denver Nuggets
Role Player
Michael Malone Gets Honest About Nikola Jokic’s Recent Accomplishment
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/michael-malone-gets-honest-about-nikola-jokics-recent-accomplishment/
(Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
Fans were riveted by the Phoenix Suns-Denver Nuggets game on Friday night, especially by the mighty work of Nikola Jokic.
Jokic had a downright historic night and scored 31 points, 21 rebounds, and 20 assists on the way to an overtime victory.
That made Jokic the first player in all of NBA history to have a 30-20-20 game.
Late on Friday, head coach Michael Malone spoke about his star player and his accomplishments, calling Jokic “one of one.”
He said the league is filled with a ton of great talent but Jokic remains “in a class all by himself.”
"I can't describe him, so don't ask me to."
Coach Michael Malone after Nikola Jokić records the first-ever 30-20-20 game in NBA historypic.twitter.com/EGEMUvlybf
— NBA (@NBA) March 8, 2025
At this point, people should expect unparalleled greatness from Jokic at all times.
The big man is averaging 28.9 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 10.6 assists per game on 57.7 percent from the field and 43.9 percent from the three-point line.
For comparison, he is posting more points, rebounds, and assists than last season when he won his third MVP trophy.
Most people feel that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will be Most Valuable Player this season but Jokic will likely come in second place.
And if he keeps producing games like this, he might become the frontrunner again and could nab his fourth MVP.
Beyond the trophies and accolades, Jokic is the engine powering his team.
After a tough start to the season, they are now the third team in the West, right behind the Los Angeles Lakers.
Although there are multiple vital players on the roster, no one can deny that Jokic is the center of it all.
For years he has been setting records and earning his place in the Hall of Fame and that’s why even his head coach is blown away.
The post Michael Malone Gets Honest About Nikola Jokic’s Recent Accomplishment appeared first on The Cold Wire.
Source: https://www.thecoldwire.com/michael-malone-gets-honest-about-nikola-jokics-recent-accomplishment/