NBA Rumors: The Denver Nuggets are at a bit of a crossroads with Paul Millsap expected to miss the next few months with an injury
The Denver Nuggets had one goal heading into the 2017-18 NBA season. Make the playoffs. And after inking Paul Millsap during the offseason, that goal appeared to be in reach.
Roughly a month into the NBA season, sitting at 10-7 and tied for 4th in the Western Conference, the Nuggets seemed well on their way. Although, now they’re going to have to navigate through the West waters without Paul Millsap.
According to ESPN, Millsap could miss up to three months after he undergoes wrist surgery. With this injury, the Nuggets are left with more questions than answers.
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Perhaps the most interesting one being, what’s next?
Denver has gotten off to an ideal start to the season. Being tied for 4th in the Western Conference, behind only the San Antonio Spurs, Houston Rockets and Golden State Warriors, is not something that should be overlooked.
The Nuggets, whether you wish to believe it or not, were rounding into one of the most well-balanced teams in the West. They might not have the talent as the three teams ahead of them in the standings, but rank 5th in offensive rating and a fair middle of the pack team (17th) on the defensive end.
Without Millsap, though, it’s almost impossible to ask the Nuggets to remain at these clips. Millsap was averaging 15 points, six rebounds and three assists through the first month of the season. He’s also one of the most underrated defenders in the league.
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In Milksop’s absence, the Nuggets could go a number of ways. They could ask Kenneth Faried to play a bit more or even demand Wilson Chandler take a bigger role in embracing a bit of small ball. Either way, it’s going to be difficult – and possibly impossible – to replace Millsap’s production.
The Denver Nuggets are at a bit of a crossroads, and have some big decisions to make over the next few weeks.