The Nuggets have picked up momentum since the all-star break as they head towards the playoffs aiming to defend their title and secure back-to-back NBA championships. Their recent form, marked by a focused and determined demeanor, has translated into a seven-game winning streak, notably highlighted by their victory over the Suns on Tuesday night.
While these games carry a playoff-like intensity, the true test lies in the postseason matchups. Expectations are high for strategic adjustments from head coach Mike Malone once the playoffs commence, including the anticipated decision to bench DeAndre Jordan, a move that has been on the cards for some time.
Yet, beyond the obvious changes, there are subtler adjustments that Malone must navigate, which may not be as apparent to fans but are crucial nonetheless. These nuances often prove decisive in championship runs, emphasizing the importance of maximizing every advantage.
As the Nuggets prepare to face formidable opponents in the playoffs, they must capitalize on every opportunity to position themselves for success. While some decisions may be challenging and potentially contentious, they are integral to the pursuit of an NBA championship.
Don’t be afraid to bench Michael Porter Jr.
This may represent Malone’s most crucial coaching decision yet: effectively managing MPJ’s contributions on a game-by-game basis. Throughout the regular season, Malone has demonstrated a willingness to bench him if his performance doesn’t meet expectations, favoring those with the hot hand instead.
While Jokic, Murray, Gordon, and even KCP are firmly established in the closing lineup, MPJ remains unpredictable. On certain occasions, such as against the Lakers, he displays stellar shooting, rebounding, and confidence. When his offense thrives, his defensive effort seems to elevate as well, showing increased focus and intensity. However, there are games where his shots aren’t falling, leading to him forcing plays on offense and lacking cohesion on defense.
Such inconsistency is manageable during the regular season but unacceptable in playoff scenarios. Malone must gauge the situation and, if MPJ’s performance is detrimental, make the tough decision to replace him. Peyton Watson, Christian Braun, and Justin Holiday have all exhibited potential on both ends of the floor and could offer more to the closing unit on a given night.
Malone cannot prioritize players’ emotions or team morale over the Nuggets’ success. Conversely, Porter must grasp the gravity of the situation and prioritize the team’s goals over personal pride. There will likely come a crucial moment where Malone must act decisively, and I believe he will, with the team responding positively. However, benching the team’s third-highest-paid player in a playoff crunch time for an unproven option is a significant risk, unlike doing so with established veterans like Bruce Brown and Jeff Green.
