For the first time in ages, it feels as if the Denver Nuggets might really be able to make it far into the playoffs.
Indeed, the NBA Finals don’t feel completely out of reach, and that hasn’t been the case for a long time.
Of course, the most productive, important, and powerful player on the team is back-to-back MVP Nikola Jokic.
But he’s been great for years while the Nuggets have struggled, so what is different this year?
Aaron Gordon:
Last Season: This Season:
15.0 PPG 16.6 PPG
5.9 RPG 6.8 RPG
2.5 APG 2.6 APG
0.6 BPG 0.8 BPG
0.6 SPG 0.8 SPG
52/33/74% 58/38/64%
60 TS% 64 TS% pic.twitter.com/NPa0sUVfYF— NBA Muse (@NBAMuse24) January 18, 2023
The rest of the team has improved recently, including forward Aaron Gordon.
Gordon, who is now playing his third season with the Nuggets, has reached new heights during 2022-23.
Last season, the California native averaged 15 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 2.5 assists on 52/33/74% from the field.
This season, Gordon has been good for 16.6 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.6 assists on 58/38/64%.
Those aren’t major improvements but they are helping the team in some crucial ways on both ends of the court.
Gordon is now considered a very important part of the team and has started in every game he’s played for the team.
Some people wonder what this means for Gordon and the team.
Will he remain with Denver for the next few seasons or will his rising profile make him a valuable and sought-after trade target for another franchise?
There are many Nuggets fans who are pleading with the front office to keep Gordon, as he has also become a fan favorite over the last couple of seasons.
His shooting has gotten better but his defensive powers have too, which means he’s more versatile than ever.
Gordon is the type of player that the Nuggets need if they wish to reverse their recent fortunes and have a strong playoff run.
But other teams are certainly taking a good, long look at Gordon and what he could do for them too.
NEXT: Nikola Jokic Ended The Weekend With A Must-See Moment