The Denver Nuggets are the reigning champions, yet once again, it seems like people are sleeping on them.
Nikola Jokic’s squad hasn’t been as dominant this season, but they haven’t needed to be either.
Jamal Murray has struggled with injuries, and losing Bruce Brown was a bit of a blow to their rotation.
However, more often than not, they’ve stepped up and have been at their best when they’ve had to face winning teams.
That’s why former NBA superstar Shaquille O’Neal believes they’re still the team to beat in the league, stating that they ‘have the blueprint’ and that no one can beat them in a seven-game series when they’re locked in (Via NBA on TNT).
“The way they’re [Nuggets] playing, especially when they’re definitely locked in, I don’t see anybody beating them in a 7-game series,” O’Neal said.
"The way they're [Nuggets] playing, especially when they're definitely locked in, I don't see anybody beating them in a 7-game series." 👀@SHAQ on the Nuggets pic.twitter.com/bqUx5yX3nl
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) March 6, 2024
Notably, that was just minutes before they dropped an overtime game to the Phoenix Suns.
The Suns dominated for most of the game, and they were able to weather the storm after a late rally by Mike Malone’s team.
The loss was particularly shocking if you consider the fact that the Nuggets were at home and that Devin Booker wasn’t available because of an ankle injury.
Even so, anybody can lose a game, and Kevin Durant most likely had this game marked on his calendar after the Nuggets took them out in the playoffs last season.
The fact of the matter is that the Nuggets are made for the playoffs.
They’ve been there and done that, and they know just what it takes to get the job done at the highest level, so it’s time people give them the credit they deserve.
NEXT: The Nuggets Accomplished Notable Milestone In Win Over Lakers