The Denver Nuggets are the reigning NBA champions.
However, just like what happened last season, they continue to be overlooked by most fans and pundits.
The Nuggets had the best record in the Western Conference last season, yet people were still skeptical as they watched them dominate their way to the NBA Finals.
Now, Shannon Sharpe and Stephen A. Smith believe they don’t have what it takes to rule the West again.
In the latest edition of “First Take,” Sharpe talked about how one should never bet against the best player in the game, which is why he can’t fathom why people aren’t so high on LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers.
Which of these teams has the best chance to win the West: Lakers, Nuggets, Suns or Warriors?@ShannonSharpe: Lakers@stephenasmith: Suns pic.twitter.com/6joXt06eRm
— First Take (@FirstTake) October 24, 2023
Sharpe believes that Anthony Davis is finally healthy and going to play more often than not this season, and praised the team’s acquisitions and depth, also hoping that Austin Reaves takes another leap forward in his development.
As for Stephen A., he believes the Phoenix Suns are now the team to beat.
He talked about Kevin Durant’s offensive efficiency and the fact that he’ll now have an entire training camp and preseason under his belt to develop chemistry with his new teammates.
He also believes that Bradley Beal will finally be motivated to stay on the court and play on both ends of the floor now that he’s playing meaningful basketball.
Last but not least, he raved about Devin Booker, who he said reminds him of Kobe Bryant, and warning the rest of the league about his work as a playmaker and de facto point guard.
The Suns and Lakers will be forces to reckon with, but we should put some respect on the champions’ name.
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