When talking about Western Conference playoff contenders everyone mentions the Los Angeles Lakers, Golden State Warriors, and Phoenix Suns.
But, one team that continues to fly under the radar is the Denver Nuggets.
They are the number one seed in the conference yet they still are not respected as legitimate contenders.
Denver has looked great so far in the playoffs, as they carry a 2-0 lead over the Suns into Game 3.
NBA analyst Mark Medina recently spoke with Colin Cowherd and declared that the Nuggets are the “real deal”.
“The Nuggets all along have shown they are the real deal. Now, this is what it looks like when fully healthy.”
— @MarkG_Medina on Nuggets 2-0 lead over Suns pic.twitter.com/iRWRhwqH0h
— Herd w/Colin Cowherd (@TheHerd) May 4, 2023
Denver has not made the Western Conference Finals since the bubble season in 2020.
They have suffered some unfortunate injuries in recent years that have caused them to underachieve.
But, now they are finally healthy and playing up to their potential.
Everything with the Nuggets starts with the play of Nikola Jokic.
He is a two-time MVP and can do it all.
In some games, he needs to be their leading scorer.
But, his ability to create for others is something that was have never seen from a center.
Another player who has stepped up in the playoffs is point guard Jamal Murray.
He is shooting the ball at a high level and even had 34 points in Game 1 versus the Suns.
Denver is more than capable of winning the West if they can stay healthy.
They have quality depth, and a few nice 3-and-D players in Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Michael Porter Jr.
Having home-court advantage is big for the Nuggets as opposing teams have to come play in the high altitude.
That can cause problems for opposing players who are not used to it.
This season looks like the best shot for Denver to make their first NBA Finals.
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