The Official General NBA Thread ... (BroncoBuff Approved)

[BroncoBuff]

The good news is: a) we won, b) everybody was healthy and played well.

The bad news is: We're no better than the Sonics, not even up-tempo. And the Sonics basically svck.

Maybe we need more time to gel, but they played us bucket for bucket until Steve Blake drained two clutch 3-pointers in the last couple minutes to provide a cushion, while Seattle TO'd on 3 straight possessions. All through the second quarter, the Sonics beat us down on fast break and early offense ... and it's not like we were 'hobbled' or anything. Everybody played and played well (but no Najera). Melo and AI were both awesome, Camby was a rock, Nene's offense was there, Blake's tempo was great and JR Smith drained at least 5 treys.

We were hitting on all cyliners ... but still barely won.

I'm thinking all this title talk is "irrational exuberance." We're not in the same echelon with the Big Three ... no way.

[enjolras]

The Sonics beat Utah a few days ago...I hear they're ok. I think they've also beaten the lakers.

Anytime a team pulls out a win, on the road, on the second night of a back-to-back it's a quality win. I think this game actually showed that the Nuggets actually have real depth at this point. They showed that they can gut out a win by getting contributions from across their roster (Nene hit two big free throws, Blake hit those 3's, etc..). That's the sign of a really good team.

[Clockwork Orange]

Hitting on all cylinders? Hardly. Carmelo hasn't rediscovered his jumper yet. Camby didn't own the boards the way he has of late (Carmelo led the team in rebounding with 9). Blake shot poorly up until the last two shots he took, which were money. They were far from at the top of their game tonight.

The only reason Seattle stayed in the game was because Ray Allen caught fire late. He's such a great shooter that when he's in the zone, it really doesn't matter what you do, he's basically unstoppable.

Right now I don't care about being in the same echelon with the "big three." This team is still learning how to play together and that's going to take more than two games.

This was their 4th game in 5 nights and they won them all. I'll take it.

[bombay]

They sucked in up and won a road game while playing for the 4th time in 5 days. Good win.

[RhymesayersDU]

I will agree to the point that the Nuggets aren't in the big three. I'll agree that we need to curb our enthusiasm for this season.

But to simply say that due to one road game, on the second night of a back to back, that is just not fair.

Everybody has said what I wanted to say. But this team can and will win some games. I'm not saying a Championship by any means, but let's not start jumping off the bandwagon completely.

[Dagmar]

We were hitting on all cyliners ... but still barely won.

I'm thinking all this title talk is "irrational exuberance." We're not in the same echelon with the Big Three ... no way.

No way is this team hitting on all cylinders yet Buff. When it does, them we'll be elite! But who knows how long it could take? This season may be too late.

[ludo21]

Nuggets are capable of being very good, possbily this year.

Its all about how you finish.

Right now the Suns are dominating everyone in this win streak, but they gotta finish the season strong, should be fun.

[bpc]

This is a rediculous thread. How many times have the Spurs just eeked by for a win? Who cares, they WIN!

The Nuggets just played back to back games and all of these guys are brand new to each other. They don't know their strengths yet or where they are going to be on the court. It will come with time.

I'm not going to say this team will be winning the NBA championship or anything but they are going to bust their butt to win some playoff games. Unlike last season, you can't just zero in on Anthony anymore and shut us down. You now how AI and JR Smith to contend with shooting the ball.

It really hurts that we have gotten nothing out of K Mart or Nene this season too.

[jutang]

I think Nene is really starting to come on. He's starting to trust that knee of his. Hopefully, he'll keep losing some pounds on the diet that Melo was on too.

Kmart... now that's another story. He's like Dale Carter, Daryl Gardner all rolled into one.

[spdirty]

All the points I wanted to make have already been made. 4th game in 5 nights.

See what they do against Utah Friday night with a day of rest and a day of practice under their belts.

[Paladin]

I am not into the betting crowd, and I am not the BBNut that some are. I do enjoy watching a game of BB, and I do enjoy watching Melo in particular. I have said before that I don't give a rat's butt if there are seventy million "better" teams or "players" out there. When the Nuggs play, with the team they have, they have a chance to win any game they are in., That is the key for me. If they don't win, they don't win., But it will not be because they didn't show up and try, and there will still be some great efforts by Camby and Melo and one or two others. Nowadays, I look to watch AI, JR and Blake along with Melo and Camby, and that other big lug seems to be improving some as well. So, what the heck? I enjoy them, and I and 18,000 or so others plunk the money down to watch them at the Can. What's the problem?

I also see where the League Insurance will eat up 80% of KMart's salary for the rest of the year, some 4.5 million. I wonder if he has any play left in him for next year?

[footstepsfrom#27]

This was their 4th game in 5 nights and they won them all. I'll take it.
That's pretty impressive no matter who they're playing. I want to see what they look like down the stretch and into next season before trying to guess what this team really is.

[Garcia Bronco]

I still can't believe that in Denver Metro that these games do not run on local over the air TV. Lame

[Master___Pain]

I still can't believe that in Denver Metro that these games do not run on local over the air TV. Lame

This is not the 80s

[Garcia Bronco]

This is not the 80s

Well...I guess I'll never see the Nuggs play unless I go to the game.

[Master___Pain]

Well...I guess I'll never see the Nuggs play unless I go to the game.

This coming from the guy with the brand new FJ and an affinity for Oakley. I think you could manage to get Altitude.

[Garcia Bronco]

This coming from the guy with the brand new FJ and an affinity for Oakley. I think you could manage to get Altitude.

LOL...that's right. I read their website last night. I would assume I have to get cable to watch?

[Hercules Rockefeller]

Yes

[Tredici]

Well...I guess I'll never see the Nuggs play unless I go to the game.

I don't get it. Do you just have basic free TV? If so, that's your choice but you are missing more than just Nugget games. Altitude is included in the most basic of cable packages.

Not that it would hurt to go to a game....

[Hercules Rockefeller]

The daily MHSM column:

There is an I in Team
by Doug Ottewill

Who said, “There’s no I in team?” They obviously haven’t seen the new-look Nuggets.

From my seats at Pepsi Center, or even from the one on my couch, I’m pretty sure I can see an I on this team. This I isn’t very big – some say he’s six-foot, but I’m not buying it – but our I plays huge. Our I, at least from my vantage point, is all about team.

Since he’s been here, in fact, there’s not only an I in this team, but there’s an A (a fellow named Melo, Anthony that is), there’s a couple of Es (a Reggie E.,an E. Najera and one who left named Earl), and an M (a fearless leader named Marcus). If only Tskitishvili had worked out, we could have easily had a T.

There’s also a B (as in Stevie B.), and last night there was even an N (he’s only got one name and there are two Ns and two Es; talk about efficient!). And don’t forget about the J and the R and the S – as in the Nuggets hired gunman, J.R. Smith (the kid can light it up). Those letters might be silent, but they’re all there. And they’re all important. When the I arrived, so did the rest of the T-E-A-M. He’s been the glue.

Allen Iverson is the one I’ve been watching. For weeks, everyone has speculated that Iverson isn’t a “team guy.” He’s a me-first guy! He can’t co-exist with another 30-point scorer. Who’s going to get the shots? Just wait until they lose! You’ll see!

That’s what the critics said. Fair enough (I guess); Iverson has had a tumultuous past, but no one has ever accused the little man of not playing hard. They have, however, assessed that Iverson is all about the stats; they claim he can’t win because he’s too into himself and his own numbers.

Spin your dial over to Altitude and try to convince me of that crap now.

Sure, the Nuggets have yet to hit a really rocky time. Actually, scratch that, they did lose seven of Iverson’s first 10 games, but never a peep was heard from the so-called malcontent. And once he got some firepower back in the lineup, he scored and so did they.

In the three games leading up to Carmelo Anthony’s return, the Answer posted nine, nine and 10 assists. He also scored 32, 25 and 36 points. J.R. Smith, in the same stretch, scored 13, 14 and 24. Last night, Smith scored 20 – you think J.R. doesn’t enjoy having Iverson as a teammate? Even Steve Blake stepped up and scored when the Nuggets needed the pass-first point guard to pick up the slack. Against Houston three games ago, when they needed him most, Steve Blake poured in 12, hitting three critical three-pointers. You don’t think Stevie B. enjoys having Iverson as a teammate slightly more than his former Milwaukee brethren?

And then there’s Melo. Since his return, Iverson has dished and dimed and made sure that Melo was the leading scorer (28 and 34). Melo didn’t even hit a jumper in his return until last night and he probably blew five or six chances to give his new floor general an assist or two more.

But the Answer didn’t care.

He didn’t care when J.R. Smith went cold in the second quarter against Memphis. He doesn’t get mad when Eddie or Reggie or Nene misses a shot in the paint and blows his assist. He gets people the ball in the right place, and that’s his job. And guess what, he’ll still get his – he’ll always get his.

You don’t score 20,000 points in the NBA if you’re confused as to how or when. Trust me, he knows exactly how to get 35 per night if it was that important to him. Iverson simply knows how to play the game. He may score five or six less points per night because there are so many weapons on his new team, but he wants to win. Against Seattle last night, there were four Nuggets who scored more than 15 points. Melo poured in 34 of his own. But the only number that mattered to Iverson was 21 – that’s how many wins the Nuggets have to date.

I haven’t seen Iverson act anything other than happy and grateful. He wants to be a part o this team. He wants to play on a winner. His past, at least for now, is exactly that – the past.

Ray Allen scorched the Nuggets for 44 points last night, but in a losing effort. He was virtually unstoppable, exhibiting incredible touch from anywhere on the floor, but he didn’t have what the Nuggets have.

Ray Allen doesn’t have an I on his team – not the one we’ve got.

[Garcia Bronco]

Well here's the deal....it's two fold. I hate paying a cable company period, and the place I am living in is for a short time...6 months...so I don't want to go through the hassle of getting it hooked up. I will never ever do business with Comcast ever again. So yes...I just have basic free TV in HD and it's awesome. I just not the guy that needs 100 channels of BS. I am also trying to spend less time in front of the TV to begin with. Maybe if they offer channels al carte I'll pay for TV again, but until then...

[Master___Pain]

Well here's the deal....it's two fold. I hate paying a cable company period, and the place I am living in is for a short time...6 months...so I don't want to go through the hassle of getting it hooked up. I will never ever do business with Comcast ever again. So yes...I just have basic free TV in HD and it's awesome. I just not the guy that needs 100 channels of BS. I am also trying to spend less time in front of the TV to begin with. Maybe if they offer channels al carte I'll pay for TV again, but until then...

Well, I guess your options are
a. find a friend that has altitude and crash their place.
b. Go to the game
c. go to a bar

BTW, Garcia, where exactly did you land? Are you house shopping right now?

I understand you reluctance to get any type of cable/dish (if you can even have a dish at your rental) at least the dish companies will move you for free though.

[Garcia Bronco]

Well, I guess your options are
a. find a friend that has altitude and crash their place.
b. Go to the game
c. go to a bar

BTW, Garcia, where exactly did you land? Are you house shopping right now?

I understand you reluctance to get any type of cable/dish (if you can even have a dish at your rental) at least the dish companies will move you for free though.

I am in Capitial Hill right now...I am looking into home ownership by sometime this summer. The question is still where though. I would like to stay in the City I think....but can I afford what I want on my own? Everything I look at is about 300k...which would come out to about 2200 a month..plus all the other ****....taxes and such...It might be a little out of my reach.....by a mile. :)

[Master___Pain]

I am in Capitial Hill right now...I am looking into home ownership by sometime this summer. The question is still where though. I would like to stay in the City I think....but can I afford what I want on my own? Everything I look at is about 300k...which would come out to about 2200 a month..plus all the other ****....taxes and such...It might be a little out of my reach.....by a mile. :)

Good luck with that. Are you including Condos and Townhomes in that search?

If you need Realtor help let me know. I know a good one.

[bronco_diesel]

i haven't read all the responses on this game, so forgive me if this point has been made.

regarding the original post in the team is not much better than the sonics-

well, last night they did not play the greatest and their defense is still very suspect. but we also need to consider a few other aspects.

this was the 4th game in 5 days. two of games being on the road - and i believe the houston travel was in the early AM hours (2-3 AM)

this team was tired, and should have been tired. to finish this stretch with a road win is a good win - and builds character. the denver teams of the past would have lost this one.

there are still questions remaining on their defense, and those questions are legit. if the team can continue to win games like this and along the way, work out their defense, they will be in good shape.

they lost two players, and got two new ones. melo was out for 15, JR out for 10 and the nene factor. with all the transition in the roster, it is going to take a bit of time to build that defensive chemistry. they are not going to be the dallas mav's defensively - but they don't have to be.

i find a lot more positives out of this win than i do negatives.

[Garcia Bronco]

Good luck with that. Are you including Condos and Townhomes in that search?

If you need Realtor help let me know. I know a good one.

A townhome would be ideal. condos are nice and all, but I am tired of them

[SpringStein]

Doug Moe (quoting him is always smart ;) ) made the comment last night that the Nuggets took Seattle's "best shot" and still came out with a win.

As everyone has stated, 4 games in 5 days and they sucked it up. A quality W imo.

[Tredici]

Well here's the deal....it's two fold. I hate paying a cable company period, and the place I am living in is for a short time...6 months...so I don't want to go through the hassle of getting it hooked up. I will never ever do business with Comcast ever again. So yes...I just have basic free TV in HD and it's awesome. I just not the guy that needs 100 channels of BS. I am also trying to spend less time in front of the TV to begin with. Maybe if they offer channels al carte I'll pay for TV again, but until then...

You can get Altitude with a basic package. Don't have to go for the 100 channel option. I like it because I'm not a big fan of commercial TV. No interest in "Reality" shows. Anyway, here is a blurb and list of providers. You don't have to go with the "name" companies. Quest offers a good bundle package in phone, highspeed internet and DirecTV.

Altitude Sports & Entertainment is the official television network of the Denver Nuggets, Colorado Avalanche, Colorado Mammoth and Colorado Rapids. No other team in its respective league (NBA, NHL, MLS and National Lacrosse League) will have more television coverage this season. For the first time ever, fans living in Avalanche and Nuggets territory can watch every single regular-season and playoff game of their favorite teams.*

Altitude will broadcast 72 Avalanche games this season, the most ever by a single network. Because of the Avs' nation-wide popularity, the remaining games will be broadcast exclusively on national television. Altitude will televise 76 Nuggets games this season, with the remaining contests also being shown exclusively on national television.

Altitude will televise at least 37 Avalanche and 38 Nuggets regular-season games in Hi-Definition this season. Call your local cable or satellite provider to find out if Altitude is available in your area.

Altitude is also a premiere destination for the two fastest growing sports in the Rockies: soccer and lacrosse. The Colorado Mammoth has become the model franchise is the National Lacrosse League. The Mammoth is the reigning NLL champion and is coached by lacrosse legend Gary Gait. Altitude will televise 13 Mammoth lacrosse games this season. Altitude also will broadcast at least eight Colorado Rapids soccer matches every year.

In addition, Altitude is the official home network of the Colorado Springs Sky Triple-A baseball team and the Central Hockey league powerhouse Colorado Eagles. Altitude will broadcast at least 12 Sky Sox games and five Eagles game this year.

Through its partnership with ESPN Syndication, Altitude will air Big 12, Big Ten, Big East and WAC basketball, and Big Ten, Big East, WAC and football games. Altitude has broadcast agreements with the Big Sky Conference, Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference, University of Northern Colorado and Metropolitan State College of Denver.


Current Providers (CO)

Beulahland Communications - 719-485-2400
Bresnan Communications - 877-273-7626
CenturyTel Commnunications - 800-201-4099
Champion Broadband - 866-801-1122
Charter Communications - 888-438-2427
Charter Communications - 970.577.0199
Comcast - 1-800-COMCAST
Copper Mountain Consolidated - 970-968-2537
K2 Communications - 866-525-2253
KCI Cable - 970-522-8107
Mountain Village Cable - 970-369-0555
PC Telcom - 970-854-2201
Qwest Cable TV Colorado - 303-383-9399
Rebel Tec Communications - 970-483-7820
Rocky Mountain Cable - 800.222.1332
San Isabel Telecom - 970-337-1300
Spring Creek Cable Inc - 970-249-4506
Time Warner - 970.641.4774
TVision - 719.676.3131
US Cable - 800-480-7020
DirecTV - 1.800.DirecTV
DISH Network - 1.800.333.3474
Other Providers (CO)

Big Sandy Telecom - 719-541-2261
Cebridge Connections - 800-584-5610
DSC/Purgatory LLC - 970-247-9000
Eagle Cablevision - 406-665-2266
Falcon Broadband - 888-522-0889
Galaxy Cable - 800-237-4744
Island Cable TV - 719-594-0729
Jade Communications - 719-589-2964
Milestone Communications - (719) 488-2916
Northern Colorado Communications Inc. - 970-483-7300
Peterson Broadband - 719-597-0873
Post Cable - (303) 278-9202
Rapid Communications LLC - 303-697-8602
Rifkin & Associates Inc. - 303-333-1215
Rural Route Video - 970-563-9593

[Atlas]

The good news is: a) we won, b) everybody was healthy and played well.

The bad news is: We're no better than the Sonics, not even up-tempo. And the Sonics basically svck.

Maybe we need more time to gel, but they played us bucket for bucket until Steve Blake drained two clutch 3-pointers in the last couple minutes to provide a cushion, while Seattle TO'd on 3 straight possessions. All through the second quarter, the Sonics beat us down on fast break and early offense ... and it's not like we were 'hobbled' or anything. Everybody played and played well (but no Najera). Melo and AI were both awesome, Camby was a rock, Nene's offense was there, Blake's tempo was great and JR Smith drained at least 5 treys.

We were hitting on all cyliners ... but still barely won.

I'm thinking all this title talk is "irrational exuberance." We're not in the same echelon with the Big Three ... no way.

IT was a good win.

It was the 4th game in 5 nights, it was a road win and Anthony hasn't found his shooting touch yet.

Besides the Sonics at home are no gimme. Don't worry Utah is coming up we'll see how Denver matches up.

[Garcia Bronco]

You can get Altitude with a basic package. Don't have to go for the 100 channel option. I like it because I'm not a big fan of commercial TV. No interest in "Reality" shows. Anyway, here is a blurb and list of providers. You don't have to go with the "name" companies. Quest offers a good bundle package in phone, highspeed internet and DirecTV.

Altitude Sports & Entertainment is the official television network of the Denver Nuggets, Colorado Avalanche, Colorado Mammoth and Colorado Rapids. No other team in its respective league (NBA, NHL, MLS and National Lacrosse League) will have more television coverage this season. For the first time ever, fans living in Avalanche and Nuggets territory can watch every single regular-season and playoff game of their favorite teams.*

Altitude will broadcast 72 Avalanche games this season, the most ever by a single network. Because of the Avs' nation-wide popularity, the remaining games will be broadcast exclusively on national television. Altitude will televise 76 Nuggets games this season, with the remaining contests also being shown exclusively on national television.

Altitude will televise at least 37 Avalanche and 38 Nuggets regular-season games in Hi-Definition this season. Call your local cable or satellite provider to find out if Altitude is available in your area.

Altitude is also a premiere destination for the two fastest growing sports in the Rockies: soccer and lacrosse. The Colorado Mammoth has become the model franchise is the National Lacrosse League. The Mammoth is the reigning NLL champion and is coached by lacrosse legend Gary Gait. Altitude will televise 13 Mammoth lacrosse games this season. Altitude also will broadcast at least eight Colorado Rapids soccer matches every year.

In addition, Altitude is the official home network of the Colorado Springs Sky Triple-A baseball team and the Central Hockey league powerhouse Colorado Eagles. Altitude will broadcast at least 12 Sky Sox games and five Eagles game this year.

Through its partnership with ESPN Syndication, Altitude will air Big 12, Big Ten, Big East and WAC basketball, and Big Ten, Big East, WAC and football games. Altitude has broadcast agreements with the Big Sky Conference, Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference, University of Northern Colorado and Metropolitan State College of Denver.


Current Providers (CO)

Beulahland Communications - 719-485-2400
Bresnan Communications - 877-273-7626
CenturyTel Commnunications - 800-201-4099
Champion Broadband - 866-801-1122
Charter Communications - 888-438-2427
Charter Communications - 970.577.0199
Comcast - 1-800-COMCAST
Copper Mountain Consolidated - 970-968-2537
K2 Communications - 866-525-2253
KCI Cable - 970-522-8107
Mountain Village Cable - 970-369-0555
PC Telcom - 970-854-2201
Qwest Cable TV Colorado - 303-383-9399
Rebel Tec Communications - 970-483-7820
Rocky Mountain Cable - 800.222.1332
San Isabel Telecom - 970-337-1300
Spring Creek Cable Inc - 970-249-4506
Time Warner - 970.641.4774
TVision - 719.676.3131
US Cable - 800-480-7020
DirecTV - 1.800.DirecTV
DISH Network - 1.800.333.3474
Other Providers (CO)

Big Sandy Telecom - 719-541-2261
Cebridge Connections - 800-584-5610
DSC/Purgatory LLC - 970-247-9000
Eagle Cablevision - 406-665-2266
Falcon Broadband - 888-522-0889
Galaxy Cable - 800-237-4744
Island Cable TV - 719-594-0729
Jade Communications - 719-589-2964
Milestone Communications - (719) 488-2916
Northern Colorado Communications Inc. - 970-483-7300
Peterson Broadband - 719-597-0873
Post Cable - (303) 278-9202
Rapid Communications LLC - 303-697-8602
Rifkin & Associates Inc. - 303-333-1215
Rural Route Video - 970-563-9593


No ACC ball...what a rip off

[Tredici]

No ACC ball...what a rip off

You've moved west young man. Time to step up to REAL sports action. Let go of that sissy east coast stuff.

[Garcia Bronco]

You've moved west young man. Time to step up to REAL sports action. Let go of that sissy east coast stuff.

Why can't I like it all...but just for the record...East Coast is superior in baseket ball and Hockey...especially Hockey. D-dd-ddiffentnately hockey.

[Paladin]

DU might disagree.

[Garcia Bronco]

DU might disagree.

DU? Dick Umbridge?

[RhymesayersDU]

If you're talking about East vs. West basketball, in the college ranks I fully agree.

Top to bottom, the ACC and Big East are the best conferences and it's not even close.

Now pro hoops, the (L)eastern Conference sucks ass.

[Garcia Bronco]

If you're talking about East vs. West basketball, in the college ranks I fully agree.

Top to bottom, the ACC and Big East are the best conferences and it's not even close.

Now pro hoops, the (L)eastern Conference sucks ass.

Pro hoops is almost unwatchable...the NBA is a terrible platform IMO. College BB is about as exciting as it gets.

[BroncoBuff]

Hitting on all cylinders? Hardly. Carmelo hasn't rediscovered his jumper yet. Camby didn't own the boards the way he has of late ... They were far from at the top of their game tonight.
Far from the top? How? Nobody played poorly, they did not seem tired or jelly-legged. Camby had 8 boards ... not bad. Nene and Evans 7 each. AI's point were a bit low, but Nene, Blake, JR and Camby (5 blocks) all played well. And Melo had an excellent game - his early 3rd quarter spurt was the Nuggets' salvation I thought.

The only reason Seattle stayed in the game was because Ray Allen caught fire late.
True ... but he's a superstar, that should be expected. On the other hand, what about JR Smith? He was hitting treys from all over, especially in the first half when the Sonics were flirting with double-digit leads. We can expect Ray Allen to dominate, but we can't count on 6 treys from JR every night. And we definitely can't count on Steve Blake to hit 2 treys in the last three minutes like that either.

This was their 4th game in 5 nights and they won them all. I'll take it.
That's very fair ... plus the Sonics were playing like their 4th straight at home.

But it was the first half that troubled me ... Melo and AI and the whole roster were energetic and excited! (Like the rest of us). But throughout the first half, the Sonics matched them bucket for bucket in transition, and did it effortlessly. Seemed kinda ominous to me.

Every time the excited Nuggest roster would go chest-bumpoing after a fast break buckets and then a turnover bucket or trey, the Sonics would bolt back with 2 or 3 buckets of their own, nonchalantly, while the Nugs defenders had blank looks on their faces like, "Hey! Didn't they read the papers? We have Melo back!


Sorry if I'm not that excited yet ... I think I'm trying to steel myself against another lower-bracket seeding and first-round exit.

[BroncoBuff]

THE NEXT MONTH:

Friday night is a big, early test for this new roster - they should win that game at home if they're serious. After that, they should sweep all 5 vs. mediocre teams (green) - MINIMUM FOUR.

Then a major challenge at home vs. PHX ... at least keep it close and give 'em a scare. After that, win FOUR or at least THREE of the next five incl. mini east road trip against mediocre teams (green).

Then ... final exams. Spurs, Jazz, Mavericks back-to-back-to-back.

http://img443.imageshack.us/img443/1220/nugs9ua.jpg

They should lose 3 max of the green games, and win at least TWO of the five reds .... preferably three.

15 games in the next month .... 11-4, 10-5 minimum if they're serious.

[RhymesayersDU]

The goal for the Nugs, even though it's not entirely realistic, is to not lose another game at home. They have such a terrible home record, like a game or 2 above .500, which is really unacceptable.

But I agree with Buff's assessment of the next month.

[Tredici]

But it was the first half that troubled me ... Melo and AI and the whole roster were energetic and excited! (Like the rest of us). But throughout the first half, the Sonics matched them bucket for bucket in transition, and did it effortlessly. Seemed kinda ominous to me.

Every time the excited Nuggest roster would go chest-bumpoing after a fast break buckets and then a turnover bucket or trey, the Sonics would bolt back with 2 or 3 buckets of their own, nonchalantly, while the Nugs defenders had blank looks on their faces like, "Hey! Didn't they read the papers? We have Melo back!


Sorry if I'm not that excited yet ... I think I'm trying to steel myself against another lower-bracket seeding and first-round exit.


How much of that brew had you consumed? There was no energy or excitement in the first half. The Nuggets promptly went down like 22-9. Nothing was dropping in. I had begun to suspect a force field had been activated above the rim. The Nugget defenders weren't even getting back. Sonics were laying them in and had about a bazillion points in the paint.

I would say the Bad News Is: The team played with little enthusiam and couldn't hit the broad side of the barn or come down with either an offensive or defensive rebound for most of the game.

The Good News Is: The won anyway.

[Clockwork Orange]

Far from the top? How? Nobody played poorly, they did not seem tired or jelly-legged. Camby had 8 boards ... not bad. Nene and Evans 7 each. AI's point were a bit low, but Nene, Blake, JR and Camby (5 blocks) all played well. And Melo had an excellent game - his early 3rd quarter spurt was the Nuggets' salvation I thought.

Camby had been averaging something like 16 rebounds per game over the last 5. He was a bit worn down, not useless or anything, but a bit leg weary.

Actually, I thought it was JR Smith's shooting in the 2nd & 3rd quarters that really kept the Nuggets in it. I laughed when I read that he would suffer as a result of the Iverson trade because I knew damn well that it would be the exact opposite. JR is getting better looks than he ever did before and Iverson (contrary to popular belief) is a very willing passer.

True ... but he's a superstar, that should be expected. On the other hand, what about JR Smith? He was hitting treys from all over, especially in the first half when the Sonics were flirting with double-digit leads. We can expect Ray Allen to dominate, but we can't count on 6 treys from JR every night. And we definitely can't count on Steve Blake to hit 2 treys in the last three minutes like that either.

See above about JR and yes, I think you can count on him to knock down a lot of threes game in and game out because teams aren't going to single cover Iverson or Carmelo so that they can babysit him at the three point line. He just needs to be reigned in a bit, though. He hits a couple of shots and then starts to force them a bit. That's to be expected, though, he's young.

They can absolutely expect Blake to hit those threes for one simple reason, he was wide open. He should be able to knock down those shots with regularity. The two plays on which he hit those threes were direct results of opponents collapsing on Iverson & Carmelo. That's not gonna change.

That's very fair ... plus the Sonics were playing like their 4th straight at home.

But it was the first half that troubled me ... Melo and AI and the whole roster were energetic and excited! (Like the rest of us). But throughout the first half, the Sonics matched them bucket for bucket in transition, and did it effortlessly. Seemed kinda ominous to me.

Every time the excited Nuggest roster would go chest-bumpoing after a fast break buckets and then a turnover bucket or trey, the Sonics would bolt back with 2 or 3 buckets of their own, nonchalantly, while the Nugs defenders had blank looks on their faces like, "Hey! Didn't they read the papers? We have Melo back!

They're still learning how to play together, there are bound to be bumps in the road.

Sorry if I'm not that excited yet ... I think I'm trying to steel myself against another lower-bracket seeding and first-round exit.

I'm excited because this is the most talented Nuggets team since the mid 80's and I've sat through a lot of absolutely wretched squads between then and now. I don't expect them to be contenders this season because I think it's going to take time for them to learn to work together on a game in and game out basis. Next year (health permitting) I think they've got a shot to be legit contenders.

It's all wait and see at this point, but they sure are fun to watch in the meantime. :)

[BroncoBuff]

JR is getting better looks than he ever did before and Iverson (contrary to popular belief) is a very willing passer. .... I think you can count on him to knock down a lot of threes game in and game out because teams aren't going to single cover Iverson or Carmelo so that they can babysit him at the three point line.
Word.

But I'm still afraid ... I've been hurt so many times before. ::) ... will I ever be able to trust again? :ouwknow:

[Atlas]

But it was the first half that troubled me ... Melo and AI and the whole roster were energetic and excited! (Like the rest of us). But throughout the first half, the Sonics matched them bucket for bucket in transition, and did it effortlessly. Seemed kinda ominous to me.

Every time the excited Nuggest roster would go chest-bumpoing after a fast break buckets and then a turnover bucket or trey, the Sonics would bolt back with 2 or 3 buckets of their own, nonchalantly, while the Nugs defenders had blank looks on their faces like, "Hey! Didn't they read the papers? We have Melo back!


Sorry if I'm not that excited yet ... I think I'm trying to steel myself against another lower-bracket seeding and first-round exit.

You have to give ray allen credit that guy is a beast. He kept Seattle in the game. He is a great player. Maybe Denver can trade for him. Hilarious!

[broncs2bowl]

Nuggets are still not in rythm, wat you smokin!

[BroncoBuff]

NETS . . ..112
NUGGETS 102
at The Pepsi Center, for heaven's sake!


Vince Carter was unconscious - 14/23 FG, 12/13 FT, 40 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists

Melo and AI: a combined 11/33! ... just 33% from the field vs. a sub-500 team 2000 miles from home ... on a Saturday night off a road loss with your crowd in full throat, excited to see AI and Melo together for just the second time. It's just my opinion, but I think that when 2 guys are gonna take half your shots ... at least one of them oughtta hit a few.

[BroncoBuff]

Nuggets are still not in rythm, wat you smokin!I'm smokin a "keepin' it re-yall blunt, loke!" ... and, the RE-YALL says they're still not in rhythm after two more games (both losses). This whole, "they need time to get into rhythm" excuse doesn't fly when you look close. This team had been having HUGELY spirited practices - with JR and Melo - during suspensions. And Camby is 100% healthy - something we probably can't count on 100% the rest of the way.

There is little excuse for the Jazz loss, and ZERO excuse for a home loss to the Nets. The players' quotes after the Jazz loss in SLC Friday were very telling, "we're still a better team," said Reggie Evans. "We had a run of tough calls there," said Marcus Camby. EARTH TO NUGGETS: "Denial" is not just a river in Egypt!




Just 2-2 with Melo back ... and three of those were vs. sub-500 teams. We gotta win 4 straight vs. mediocre and lowly competition in the run up to PHX in Denver...

This ain't no party. This ain't no disco.

[TheChamp24]

What makes the NBA suck hardcore: 21 fouls called, 39 free throw attempts in the 4TH QUARTER, not the entire game, but just the 4th quarter. What a load of crock that is and ridiculus.

[SureShot]

I'm smokin a "keepin' it re-yall blunt, loke!" ... and, the RE-YALL says they're still not in rhythm after two more games (both losses). This whole, "they need time to get into rhythm" excuse doesn't fly when you look close. This team had been having HUGELY spirited practices - with JR and Melo - during suspensions. And Camby is 100% healthy - something we probably can't count on 100% the rest of the way.

There is little excuse for the Jazz loss, and ZERO excuse for a home loss to the Nets. The players' quotes after the Jazz loss in SLC Friday were very telling, "we're still a better team," said Reggie Evans. "We had a run of tough calls there," said Marcus Camby. EARTH TO NUGGETS: "Denial" is not just a river in Egypt!




Just 2-2 with Melo back ... and three of those were vs. sub-500 teams. We gotta win 4 straight vs. mediocre and lowly competition in the run up to PHX in Denver...

This ain't no party. This ain't no disco.



The Nuggets are going nowhere until they stop giving up easy baskets, and get tougher in close games.

[theAPAOps5]

I was at the game last night and it was very uninspired ball by the Nuggs. THe first quarter was great and then like we've seen they went into cruise control mode. Then when a few calls went against them and a few were missed they lost all semblence of talent. Rough game to say the least. Melo was very selfish, granted he started hot, but he could have passed some more. AI could not get a bucket to save his life after the second Quarter. Blake could not guard Vince Carter to save his life. I attribute the loss to a hangover from the very emotional loss the night before but they can't afford to lose consecutive games the rest of the year. Finally, can we get some GDamn defense it is ridiculous.

[ludo21]

on a bright side theSuns have won 17 in a row!!

WOWOOHOOHOHO

[Dagmar]

on a bright side theSuns have won 17 in a row!!

WOWOOHOOHOHO

Booooooooooooooooooooooooooo!

[BroncoBuff]

PHX is gonna run into a buzz-saw at the Pepsi Center next Monday!!!!!!



::) Uhh hmmm... :-[ :nono: :-/ ::) Uhh ........

[RhymesayersDU]

Found this little tidbit on the SI.com power rankings:

Denver Nuggets
They're making a big push to get Marcus Camby on the All-Star team, even calling coaches around the league to lobby for his candidacy. But isn't three All-Stars a lot for a team that has yet to show it can hang with the West's elite?

1) Interesting that calls are being made on MC's behalf.
2) You can't really argue with the last sentence.
3) I love MC when he's playing, but unfortunately, campaigning will do nothing. West is way too deep at PF/C to put MC on the roster, no matter how well he is playing.

[ludo21]

PHX is gonna run into a buzz-saw at the Pepsi Center next Monday!!!!!!



::) Uhh hmmm... :-[ :nono: :-/ ::) Uhh ........



maybe a dull buzz saw.... :welcome:

[RhymesayersDU]

Tonight, I am a Suns fan. Well not even really a Suns fan. But I need many points to be scored so I can hit the over. I guess I don't really care who wins.

Let's go PHX/MIN, no defense!

[Clockwork Orange]

....campaigning will do nothing.

It does one thing, it makes them look lame.

Let him make it in on his merits or not at all.

[RhymesayersDU]

It does one thing, it makes them look lame.

Let him make it in on his merits or not at all.

Indeed. And if anything, they need to be campaigning for their present and future superstar to make the squad. I know he's the leading scorer and most analysts have 'Melo on the squad, but I still think it's up in the air with the suspension.

[ludo21]

KG is putting on a clinic.

Guy is on fire, faid away jumpers, turn arounds. Man he is amazing.

To top it off the Suns are shooting ice cold.

With 3 minutes left and down by 7 they need to heat up, fast!!

[BroncoBuff]

Found this little tidbit on the SI.com power rankings:



1) Interesting that calls are being made on MC's behalf.
2) You can't really argue with the last sentence.
3) I love MC when he's playing, but unfortunately, campaigning will do nothing. West is way too deep at PF/C to put MC on the roster, no matter how well he is playing.

1-2-3 ... agree x 3.

[ludo21]

on the way to their first loss in January.

Dang it!!

O well, KG has been amazing, nothing has stopped him tonight, especially in the 4th Q.

[BroncoBuff]

Really? To Minnesota?


The Nuggets better put the smash-mouth on Charlotte tonight at home. 20+ points ... they need the confodence boost.

[ludo21]

Nash was on the bench a bit too long and when he came in the Wolves were hot!

down by 7, ugh!

5th game in 7 days, probably a bit tired. not quite sure, but they havent done much in the paint tonight

[Clockwork Orange]

The Nuggets might really be something if they ever figure out that you have to work to win. Talent alone isn't taking them anywhere.

If they all played as hard as Iverson, they'd be contenders right now. Right now they've got too many guys taking plays off, especially at the defensive end, to go anywhere. I'd be amazed if I ever saw a 48 minute effort out of the entire team.

They should be ashamed of themselves after finding a way to lose to Charlotte tonight. Yes, they're still learning to play together, but there's no excuse for coming up short against that team.

On to Portland.

[Orange_Beard]

How can they be so crappy at home? 12 and 12.

WTF?

[epicSocialism4tw]

Nash was on the bench a bit too long and when he came in the Wolves were hot!
down by 7, ugh!
5th game in 7 days, probably a bit tired. not quite sure, but they havent done much in the paint tonight

The tough part of their schedule is coming up. The Suns will have to start playing Western Conference contenders regularly now, and will probably have to win at the same rate to keep pace with Dallas. Dallas has already played over half of it's games against the Western powers and the top couple of Eastern squads.

It gets tougher for the Suns and easier for the Mavs from here on out.

[epicSocialism4tw]

The Nuggets might really be something if they ever figure out that you have to work to win. Talent alone isn't taking them anywhere.
If they all played as hard as Iverson, they'd be contenders right now. Right now they've got too many guys taking plays off, especially at the defensive end, to go anywhere. I'd be amazed if I ever saw a 48 minute effort out of the entire team.
They should be ashamed of themselves after finding a way to lose to Charlotte tonight. Yes, they're still learning to play together, but there's no excuse for coming up short against that team.
On to Portland.

My concern with Iverson coming over was that the team wouldnt have the leadership that they needed to be successful unless Iverson became a willing second banana. Iverson is a career .500 leader. There comes a point in time when you just have to realize that you are not able to carry a team by yourself, and over Iverson's career he hasnt been able to come to that conclusion.

With that said, I think that by this time next season, the Nuggets should be finding their personality and hitting their stride if they can come together to commit to winning basketball. They have enough diverse talent to become both an offensively and defensively efficient squad, it's just a matter of the players buying into what Karl is selling them and putting those principles into practice.

Until then, I would expect them to lose stinkers like the Charlotte game where the Nuggets players dont really care whether or not they win.

[RhymesayersDU]

How can they be so crappy at home? 12 and 12.

WTF?

I agree, that is absolutely unacceptable.

I'll buy into the theory that until the All-Star Break it will be an experiment phase to find out what works and what doesn't with Melo, AI, etc... I can get with that, but the flip side to that is that these guys need to lose in the single digits on the other side of the break if they want to even contemplate getting a favorable match-up and/or even winning a playoff series.

We shall see.

[BroncoBuff]

CO is right, there's no excuse for losing to the Bobcats at home ...

Not to say "I told you so," but something seemed funny about that Sonics game last week (that started this thread), something didn't look right. The Sonics so easily matched them bucket for bucket, and the Nugs had blank looks on their faces like, "haven't you guys heard? We're the next big thing!" ... taking plays off, like CO said, maybe resting on their ESPN cover-boy laurels ? ?

They've lost 3 in a row since then ... maybe it is the hype, vecause Charlotte is a very bad team. I don't think I agree with llama that AI is not adjusting to second banana, that was the least of the problems I saw vs. Seattle anyway. And how can you say "career .500"? He carried them on his back to the finals.

I don't think it's AI .... but something is very wrong here.

[Nuggets4]

**** the Nuggets. **** the players. **** the coaching staff. **** the front office. I'm sick of this ****.

[ludo21]

agreed llama.

The Suns are hitting a tough stretch here.

We shall find out if they are for real here. They need to win this stretch to prove once again they are for real.

[TheChamp24]

Trade JR Smith for some defensive players, good lord. Get a forward who can rebound and play effective defense, and a guard who can play D.

[epicSocialism4tw]

agreed llama.
The Suns are hitting a tough stretch here.
We shall find out if they are for real here. They need to win this stretch to prove once again they are for real.

I dont think that we'll see a real test for the Suns until the playoffs. That's when we'll see if they've built on their past shortcomings.

The trick for the Suns will be to keep from wearing themselves thin just to try to win the West. Dallas is excellent, and should begin to peak over the next two months. It will be tough for Phoenix to keep pace. What has been typical of Nash in the past (as a Mav, and in his nearly three seasons as a Sun) is that he pushes so hard in the regular season that he has problems continuting at the same level when playoff basketball hits and the game gets more bruising, more tiring, more competitive. Nash has already attempted to prepare Suns fans for this by making a statement that their playoff hopes rest on Amare Stoudemire.

The 02-03 Mavs began the season 14-0 and buzzed through the league in the first half of the season, only to slow down in the second half when the playoff-ready teams began to hone their systems and Nash was exposed as a defensive liability. Believe it or not, Nash was viewed in Dallas as the reason that they would never be able to get past the Spurs and over the hump into the finals. That showed itself to be true when Dallas became a much more effiective playoff team after he left, and when Dirk became the focal point of the team.

The Suns vs. the elite of the West:
Mavs 0-2
Jazz 0-2
Spurs 0-1
Lakers 0-1

[Clockwork Orange]

Stern continues to make sure everyone knows he's in charge here. Kobe suspended for an unintentional elbow on Ginobli.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2748084

I didn't see the play, but if it was unintentional, this is a complete joke. Basketball is a contact sport, **** happens sometimes. You can't go suspending people every time someone catches an accidental shot to the face.

If it was deliberate, fine, suspend him. If it was accidental, it's yet another Stern overreaction.

[bronco_diesel]

Trade JR Smith for some defensive players, good lord. Get a forward who can rebound and play effective defense, and a guard who can play D.


the nuggets finally have an outside shooter (who I might add is young and has great up-side) and you want to trade him away? they tried that expermiment..

i will admit that JR needs to get better defensively, much better - but he should be kept on the roster.

[bronco_diesel]

CO is right, there's no excuse for losing to the Bobcats at home ...

Not to say "I told you so," but something seemed funny about that Sonics game last week (that started this thread), something didn't look right. The Sonics so easily matched them bucket for bucket, and the Nugs had blank looks on their faces like, "haven't you guys heard? We're the next big thing!" ... taking plays off, like CO said, maybe resting on their ESPN cover-boy laurels ? ?

They've lost 3 in a row since then ... maybe it is the hype, vecause Charlotte is a very bad team. I don't think I agree with llama that AI is not adjusting to second banana, that was the least of the problems I saw vs. Seattle anyway. And how can you say "career .500"? He carried them on his back to the finals.

I don't think it's AI .... but something is very wrong here.

i get the ipression that the nuggets feel that simply showing up to the game is going to get the win. like CO comments, if they figure out they need to work each game, they will be very good.

it almost seems like they are waiting for their backs to be totally against the wall to "turn it on"

right now, they are all talk. they talk about making a run, they talk about melo being back, they talk about stepping it up - but no action has backed up their talk.

they should shut up and just play hard.

[ludo21]

The Suns vs. the elite of the West:
Mavs 0-2
Jazz 0-2
Spurs 0-1
Lakers 0-1

ouch

Altho we hadnt peaked yet when we played any of those teams early on. So im not too worried about those losses yet.

Nash played very well in the playoffs last year, so i think he has learned to keep some energy for the playoffs. Amare is the best chance we got to do well in the playoffs for sure,

I want the Suns to get the #1 seed purely so they dont have to play botht he Spurs and Mavs in the playoffs. That would be tough to get through.

[epicSocialism4tw]

The Suns vs. the elite of the West:
Mavs 0-2
Jazz 0-2
Spurs 0-1
Lakers 0-1
ouch
These types of results were typical of the Dirk/Nash Mavs. The playoff results have been strikingly similar as well. Dallas would occasionally give hope to first and second round opponents that they should have mopped the floor with. Dallas almost lost to Portland after being up 3-0 one year because Nash failed offensively in those tough, physical games and couldnt keep up defensively. Then they needed 7 games to beat a Sac team without Chris Webber. When Dirk went out with a severe knee injury against the Spurs in the conference Finals, the Mavs didnt have a chance.

Last season the Suns showed the same type of quality in the playoffs, and it was Dirk who put them away in the conference finals with a classic performance in a series that wasnt really that close.


Nash played very well in the playoffs last year, so i think he has learned to keep some energy for the playoffs. Amare is the best chance we got to do well in the playoffs for sure

What concerns me about the Suns is that they have not developed a back-to-the-basket post game with Stoudemire, and he does not have experience as a post defender in a real extended half-court situation. To me, that is where their opportunity lies. The Run-n-gun game with Nash will go away when they play the Mavs, Spurs, or Lakers just like it did last season. Disciplined teams are able to dictate half-court play to the Suns.

They are going to need a Stoudemire who is comfortable operating out of the post in a half-court game, and he hasnt shown that he is ready for that so far this season. I blame that on D'Antoni.

I want the Suns to get the #1 seed purely so they dont have to play botht he Spurs and Mavs in the playoffs. That would be tough to get through

It would be a tough group to get through, but the Suns shouldnt worry themselves with the regular season now. They should worry themselves with getting ready for playoff basketball, which might mean losing a few games to work on half-court execution on both ends and getting players like Nash some rest.

Dallas made the finals last season as a 4 seed.

[RhymesayersDU]

Stern continues to make sure everyone knows he's in charge here. Kobe suspended for an unintentional elbow on Ginobli.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2748084

I didn't see the play, but if it was unintentional, this is a complete joke. Basketball is a contact sport, **** happens sometimes. You can't go suspending people every time someone catches an accidental shot to the face.

If it was deliberate, fine, suspend him. If it was accidental, it's yet another Stern overreaction.

I didn't see it either, but let's just give Kobe the benefit of the doubt here. Let's assume that it was unintentional.

Good to know that KG can throw a punch, consciously trying to fight/hurt somebody and get 1 game, and Kobe gets the same time for an unintentional elbow. Yeah, those are the exact same thing.

You stay classy, Stern.

[KipCorrington25]

Yeah the league has a long track record of trying to screw the Lakers... LOL Hilarious! :rofl: ROFL! :slapsilly ::)

[broncs2bowl]

Wats up with the Nuggets!! They lost to Utah which was OK coming of a 5 game win streak. BUt than drop to the Nets and CHARLOTTE!!!! Is it just takin some time for AI and Anthony to mesh. Anthony is not shootin very well from the field either. Hes not makin the shots he usually does. Wat happend!

Wat do you guys think

[Clockwork Orange]

http://www.orangemane.com/BB/showthread.php?t=52396

[OrangeShadow]

college basketball > the NBA

[broncs2bowl]

college basketball > the NBA

college B-ball is personally boring to me

[azbroncfan]

The DENVER THUGGETS.

[Clockwork Orange]

The DENVER THUGGETS.

Did you think that up all by yourself? Pure comedic gold right there. Totally original, too. Well done.

[Master___Pain]

and maybe he created this?
http://i6.ebayimg.com/04/i/000/88/03/7911_2.JPG

[Clockwork Orange]

and maybe he created this?
http://i6.ebayimg.com/04/i/000/88/03/7911_2.JPG

If I saw that shirt in a store, I'd buy one. :yep:

[Master___Pain]

If I saw that shirt in a store, I'd buy one. :yep:

It's on ebay (I assuming you saw this on the nuggs proboard as well)

[broncs2bowl]

Great shirt now WATS WRONG WITH THE NUGGETS!

[RhymesayersDU]

Thug is code. Make whatever assumption you wish about those who use it.

As far as the Nuggets go, they desperately need a defensive minded big man to help Marcus up front. Seems that Reggie Evans could be that guy, but he's more interested in battling Camby for rebounds. He may need to go, and Eduardo's contributions haven't been what they could be defensively. Maybe unload one or both for a guy who has a huge desire to play D. It's what they need from the 4.

Frightening is the idea that this team's success may hinge on Nene's play at PF... Granted, it'd probably be next year after full rehabbing and hopefully massive weight loss.

[TheChamp24]

the nuggets finally have an outside shooter (who I might add is young and has great up-side) and you want to trade him away? they tried that expermiment..

i will admit that JR needs to get better defensively, much better - but he should be kept on the roster.

Going 1-9 from 3 point range and 2-12 from the field doesn't strike me as an outside shooter. I know its one game, but seeing him play at times, he just throws the rock up there. He has the most trade value as well, and would net us the most in return. I don't really want to give him up, but if it means getting guys who can play defense, then maybe it won't be so bad. and I mean good players here, not some guys like Greg Buckner.

[BroncoBuff]

Trade JR Smith for some defensive players, good lord. Get a forward who can rebound and play effective defense, and a guard who can play D.

Disagree .... WAY disagree.

First - Reggie Evans definitely IS that power forward - who can rebound and play (decent) defense. And if Nene can lose 10+ pounds and play more then 20 minutes a game, that's two.

Plus, JR is crucial ... we need a good outside shooter to keep defenses honest when AI penetrates or Carmelo works inside .... outside shooters are in short supply league-wide, and JR is the best we've got.

[Dagmar]

Game night bizump!

[BroncoBuff]

Blazers ... I'll prolly get it on FSNW.


I promise a full report. But after the Bobcats loss at home, even the Blazers seem scary on the road ::)

[Rascal]

JR needs to get benched and this team needs to learn how to play defense and put away these weak opponents. This is ugly.

[Rascal]

Ugh. Not good when your center has more assists then everybody else (and almost combined at that).

[RhymesayersDU]

Poor Nugs. :(

[Hercules Rockefeller]

At least there's that possibility that they keep their 1st if they win the lottery

[epicSocialism4tw]

If there's ever a year to trade a star player for a top 2 pick, this is it.

Between Oden and Durant, you cant go wrong.

The Nuggs will have the ammo to get it done.

[RhymesayersDU]

I don't know if they'd pull the trigger, but Oden will be something special. I've heard nothing but glowing reports about Durant... I really need to catch a Texas game.

[epicSocialism4tw]

I don't know if they'd pull the trigger, but Oden will be something special. I've heard nothing but glowing reports about Durant... I really need to catch a Texas game.

Durant is an absolute freak of nature. He's a mix between Nowitzki, Garnett, and McGrady.

If I'm in Nugget BT land preparing for the war room, I look at Anthony and give a call to whoever has one of the top two picks. Anthony will always be a well-above-average player, but Oden has Bill Russell or Tim Duncan written all over him, and Durant looks like the NBA's next dominant scorer.

[spdirty]

Nuggets are ****in unbelievable. Last 2 games they had to win if they really wanted a shot at the division. Shlt, they won't get any better than a 6 seed unless they go 25-4 again

[RhymesayersDU]

Durant is an absolute freak of nature. He's a mix between Nowitzki, Garnett, and McGrady.

If I'm in Nugget BT land preparing for the war room, I look at Anthony and give a call to whoever has one of the top two picks. Anthony will always be a well-above-average player, but Oden has Bill Russell or Tim Duncan written all over him, and Durant looks like the NBA's next dominant scorer.

But if that's true, do you think that anybody will trade the #1 or #2 pick away? And not just for Anthony, but for any player from any squad?

And if Durant is even half of what you say he is, I really need to catch the next Texas TV game.

[epicSocialism4tw]

But if that's true, do you think that anybody will trade the #1 or #2 pick away? And not just for Anthony, but for any player from any squad?
And if Durant is even half of what you say he is, I really need to catch the next Texas TV game.

The kid just had 37 points and 23 boards in a college game. He's definitely worth the channel flip.

It takes a big name to get a deal like that deal done. Anthony is young, talented, and marketable. He'd be popular in Boston, Atlanta, etc. Offering Anthony would make a team think long and hard about it. I think that you could get the #2 pick for him and a package with Denver's #1.

[BroncoBuff]

... they're dead to me ...

[Nuggets4]

**** the Nuggets. **** the players. **** the coaching staff. **** the front office. I'm sick of this ****.

Quoted for truth.

[theAPAOps5]

This season has now crossed over to ridiculous. The players play about one quarter of basketball. Then they play this defense I like to call pantomime. They wave their arms around like a mime with no real semblance of coverage. The opposition sets a pick and whamo they have discovered the weakness.

This team does not rotate, they do not box out, and they play selfish. Melo is really starting to irk the hell out of me. I love basketball but I just can't stomach this drivel anymore.

Worst part about it, I HAVE NO CLUE HOW THEY FIX THIS!

[Rascal]

Went into overtime but at least they won. They need to learn to put away these crappy teams.

Nice to see Nene playing some quality minutes and providing some offensive output. They need him to stay healthy and continue to have solid production if they are going to go anywhere.

[broncs2bowl]

NO way are we trading Melo....I might cry if that happend, hes my favorite player

[ludo21]

Durant is special Rhyme. but who knows how well he translates into the NBA. A good thing is that he is not just playing well, he is dominating the college comp. Avg. like 25 poiints a game! Plus he had that 20/20 game the other night

[Rascal]

I'll wait on Durant till he plays some competition. I noticed he didn't play well against LSU who has Baby Shack.

To hear you say that you would want to trade Melo for the #1 draft pick is incredible IMO. The guy is the highest scorer in the league and is still very young. Durant, as much as he has dominated the college game thus far, is a risk because who knows how he will play in the NBA. Sorry but IMO that's stupid.

[TheChamp24]

Welp, Nuggets are just an average team with 2 high scorers and a solid center, nothing more.

[theAPAOps5]

Watching this team is like sitting in a classroom and watching a teacher run their nails down the chalk board over and over and over and over again. Why I keep watching is beyond me. I keep thinking the light will come on but it never does.

Melo is just pathetic since the suspension ended. Yeah he scores 30 but he also shoots like 5,567,987,123,095 times and misses 52% of those. And his lack of defense is really what is keeping him out of the All-star game. He comes down bitching to the refs about a non-call when in reality it was a legit defense then stands around the free throw line with his arms out and pointing in the general direction of where the ball is.

He really needs a good old fashioned benching. He needs to get that fire back again. I thought the All-Star snub would do it but alas it hasn't. Maybe the best thing that could happen is Camby gets one of the reserve slots from the commish. Then maybe Melo will play hard for 48 minutes.

[azbroncfan]

The nuggets have two guys who can easily average 30 pts but it takes them 30 shots.

[BroncoBuff]

This is worse than anything we could have imagined ...

114-112 OT loss at home - to Charlotte, perhaps the worst team in the league. Camby was out, but Iverson played.

[spdirty]

This is worse than anything we could have imagined ...

114-112 OT loss at home - to Charlotte, perhaps the worst team in the league. Camby was out, but Iverson played.

NO/Oklahoma City...but still, they had a 12 point lead with 5 minutes left, then quit playing. Unbelievable. Wouldnt be surprised if they didnt even make the playoffs this year, and hell even if they do, it'll be another 5 gamer.

[epicSocialism4tw]

The Iverson .500 disease has struck in Denver. Hopefully Anthony is the cure.

[ludo21]

tough loss last night.

not sure what the core of the problem is, but the talent is there

[azbroncfan]

tough loss last night.

not sure what the core of the problem is, but the talent is there

The nuggets have two guys who can easily average 30 pts but it takes them 30 shots a piece.

[ludo21]

The nuggets have two guys who can easily average 30 pts but it takes them 30 shots a piece.

great point.....

JR Smith is playing much better than I thought he would be.

I think if they actually got a true PG they would be able to run things much better.

Blake is decent but no starter.

[Clockwork Orange]

not sure what the core of the problem is, but the talent is there

The core of the problem is that they don't ever play for 48 minutes. If they could ever put together any resembling consistent effort, they'd be something else.

That hasn't happened all year, though, so I'm not expecting to see it anytime soon.

[Clockwork Orange]

The nuggets have two guys who can easily average 30 pts but it takes them 30 shots a piece.

Carmelo is averaging 31 points per game on 24 shots. Iverson is averaging 27 points per game on 21 shots.

Try again.

[Master___Pain]

great point.....

JR Smith is playing much better than I thought he would be.

I think if they actually got a true PG they would be able to run things much better.

Blake is decent but no starter.

Just curious Ludo, who would you suggest at the point? With the other starters being AI, Melo, Nene and Camby (in a perfect world) To me, Steve Blake, or some one similar to him is exactly what the Nuggs need. Pass first, pass second and shoot third.

[ludo21]

Just curious Ludo, who would you suggest at the point? With the other starters being AI, Melo, Nene and Camby (in a perfect world) To me, Steve Blake, or some one similar to him is exactly what the Nuggs need. Pass first, pass second and shoot third.

Steve Nash.... ;D

I just havent seen Blake do anything to deserve being a starter. But I have only watched 6 or so games so there is that Ha!

They will have to stick it out with Blake, and Karl is going to have to live up to his hype and actually get Anthony and AI to play better together and get some plays going rather than just run ISO plays for each of them.

Next FA is when they should add someone.

[broncs2bowl]

The core of the problem is we dont play defense to finish out games. I think near the end of games we need to get Iverson or Anthony our of the lineup and put in another big body live Evans/Nene along with Camby on the court. We are great all the way through 3 and a half quarters. We blow it near the end of th e fourth!

[azbroncfan]

Carmelo is averaging 31 points per game on 24 shots. Iverson is averaging 27 points per game on 21 shots.

Try again.
Of course I was exaggerating but FG percentage is what I was getting at. Both in 40% which isn't good for a forward and that is what Anthony is. Iverson is low 40% and isn't even in top 50 in the league.

Next try again, by the way what are the Thuggets record since the AI trade and specifically when both of them play?

[Clockwork Orange]

Of course I was exaggerating but FG percentage is what I was getting at. Both in 40% which isn't good for a forward and that is what Anthony is. Iverson is low 40% and isn't even in top 50 in the league.

Next try again, by the way what are the Thuggets record since the AI trade and specifically when both of them play?

Either you were exaggerating or you were just wrong. Whichever.

I don't know the record off the top of my head, but I'd say it's got to be sub .500. Why? Were you one of the brainwashed masses who thought that they'd be instant contenders just by adding Iverson to the lineup? Some of us took a much more realistic approach and realized that it would likely take the rest of this season just to develop any type of chemistry amongst the team.

You know what's a really fun game right now in this town? It's called Count the Bandwagoners. It's so adorable to me to see people act as if the Nuggets current struggles are just the worst thing ever to happen to this franchise. It's easy to spot the people who tuned in right about the time that Carmelo got here because they haven't the slightest clue as to what real hard times are.

[Master___Pain]

You know what's a really fun game right now in this town? It's called Count the Bandwagoners. It's so adorable to me to see people act as if the Nuggets current struggles are just the worst thing ever to happen to this franchise. It's easy to spot the people who tuned in right about the time that Carmelo got here because they haven't the slightest clue as to what real hard times are.

No ****. Paul Westhead, Bickerstaff, Gene Little, Dick Motta.....ugh I think I'm going to be sick. And then, to top it off, you look around the league and see how many former nuggets made or are making a name for themselves else where. Dammit CO, why did you have to remind me of these suppressed memories?

[Clockwork Orange]

No ****. Paul Westhead, Bickerstaff, Gene Little, Dick Motta.....ugh I think I'm going to be sick. And then, to top it off, you look around the league and see how many former nuggets made or are making a name for themselves else where. Dammit CO, why did you have to remind me of these suppressed memories?

Don't forget Allan Bristow and the 11-71 season. People who sat through that monstrosity know that this slump is just a blip on the hard times radar.

[RhymesayersDU]

Of course I was exaggerating but FG percentage is what I was getting at. Both in 40% which isn't good for a forward and that is what Anthony is. Iverson is low 40% and isn't even in top 50 in the league.

Next try again, by the way what are the Thuggets record since the AI trade and specifically when both of them play?

Actually, Carmelo is shooting pretty well. Of all forwards in the league who qualify for stats, (i.e., not guys who have just taken 1 shot all year and thus are shooting 1.000) Carmelo is ranked 30th, tied with Kevin Garnett and Caron Butler.

Not incredibly high, but considering that most guys on the list ahead of him are guys who play close to the basket and don't take a shot outside of 10 feet, it's not bad at all. Guys on the list (The PF's mainly) like Amare, Dwight Howard, Emeka Okafor, Chris Wilcox, Udonis Haslem, are always going to have the best percentages because they take fewer shots and take them in the lane.

And out of the scorers, LeBron, T-Mac, Rip Hamilton, Paul Pierce, etc, are all behind Carmelo.

http://www.nba.com/statistics/player/FieldGS.jsp?league=00&season=22006&conf=OVERALL&position=2&splitType=9&splitScope=GAME&qualified=Y&yearsExp=-1&splitDD=All%20Teams

[RhymesayersDU]

And as for AI, he's at 35th among guards. Not great by any means, but he's ahead of Gilbert Arenas, who everybody has gushed over this season and talked about as an MVP candidate.

http://www.nba.com/statistics/player/FieldGS.jsp?league=00&season=22006&conf=OVERALL&position=5&splitType=9&splitScope=GAME&qualified=Y&yearsExp=-1&splitDD=All%20Teams

[Master___Pain]

Don't forget Allan Bristow and the 11-71 season. People who sat through that monstrosity know that this slump is just a blip on the hard times radar.

God dammit CO, did you not see me mention SUPPRESSED memories. 11-71....I truly had deleted that memory.

[Nuggets4]

Man, remember when Eric Williams was the franchise's savior before tearing his ACL 4 games into the season?

[Master___Pain]

Man, remember when Eric Williams was the franchise's savior before tearing his ACL 4 games into the season?

Oh yeah? You want some of this too? **** you you Bastard! All these suppressed memories and you and CO are just like vultures tearing away at the scabs. Have you no heart?

If anyone needs me I'll be talking to my therapist. a-holes.

[broncs2bowl]

You guys have really given up on the NUggets all it takes is some time and some 4rth quarter defense

[RhymesayersDU]

I really wish I could actually see these games, despite the losing. I'm actually excited about the season after the A-S break. I know it's hard to come back and "flip the switch" late in the season, but if they can gel at all together, they have talent.

I wonder when the next ESPN or TNT game is. Soon, hopefully.

[Master___Pain]

You guys have really given up on the NUggets all it takes is some time and some 4rth quarter defense

WTF are you talking about? Nobody's given up.

[broncs2bowl]

Thankyou for you optimism RhymesayersDU! THe Nuggets will pull through late once they mesh

[broncs2bowl]

WTF are you talking about? Nobody's given up.

Well maybe it just me, but a lot of people seem to have given up on the Nuggets. It seems like everyone wanted instant results from the AI trade.

[azbroncfan]

Either you were exaggerating or you were just wrong. Whichever.

I don't know the record off the top of my head, but I'd say it's got to be sub .500. Why? Were you one of the brainwashed masses who thought that they'd be instant contenders just by adding Iverson to the lineup? Some of us took a much more realistic approach and realized that it would likely take the rest of this season just to develop any type of chemistry amongst the team.

You know what's a really fun game right now in this town? It's called Count the Bandwagoners. It's so adorable to me to see people act as if the Nuggets current struggles are just the worst thing ever to happen to this franchise. It's easy to spot the people who tuned in right about the time that Carmelo got here because they haven't the slightest clue as to what real hard times are.


Why are you assuming I'm a nuggets fan?

[Master___Pain]

Well maybe it just me, but a lot of people seem to have given up on the Nuggets. It seems like everyone wanted instant results from the AI trade.

It's just you. Nobody's given up, at least of the core Nuggs fans I know. Really ****ing frustrated is probably a better term for how Nuggets fans feel.

Of course people wanted instant results from the AI trade....that's one of the major factors of making a trade like that.

[azbroncfan]

Actually, Carmelo is shooting pretty well. Of all forwards in the league who qualify for stats, (i.e., not guys who have just taken 1 shot all year and thus are shooting 1.000) Carmelo is ranked 30th, tied with Kevin Garnett and Caron Butler.

Not incredibly high, but considering that most guys on the list ahead of him are guys who play close to the basket and don't take a shot outside of 10 feet, it's not bad at all. Guys on the list (The PF's mainly) like Amare, Dwight Howard, Emeka Okafor, Chris Wilcox, Udonis Haslem, are always going to have the best percentages because they take fewer shots and take them in the lane.

And out of the scorers, LeBron, T-Mac, Rip Hamilton, Paul Pierce, etc, are all behind Carmelo.

http://www.nba.com/statistics/player/FieldGS.jsp?league=00&season=22006&conf=OVERALL&position=2&splitType=9&splitScope=GAME&qualified=Y&yearsExp=-1&splitDD=All%20Teams


Point I was making was they take a lot of shots. Look at total FGA and they both are just outside top 10 and have missed a few games especially melo.

[Master___Pain]

Point I was making was they take a lot of shots. Look at total FGA and they both are just outside top 10 and have missed a few games especially melo.

MJ was a league leader in FGA.....most scorers take a lot of shots. I'm just trying to make sure we are thinking/posting/saying the same thing here.

[TheChamp24]

Point I was making was they take a lot of shots. Look at total FGA and they both are just outside top 10 and have missed a few games especially melo.

Good lord, what do you want? Other guys who can't score get shots? Melo has a shooting percentage of .475, that is pretty damn good. He averages 24 shots a game, but he makes 11 of them, almost half. How can you argue against that?
Like someone else said, Arenas has a shooting percentage of .424, and is attemtping 22 shots a game and making 9. Iverson is practically the same, roughly 10 for 22 a game, a .435 shooting percentage.
They put up shots and score, there is nothing wrong with the offense. The problem is the defense.

[azbroncfan]

MJ was a league leader in FGA.....most scorers take a lot of shots. I'm just trying to make sure we are thinking/posting/saying the same thing here.

Yes but go look at his FG percentage and he wasn't a great 3 pt shooter. Several years over 50 % and he is a G.

[RhymesayersDU]

Point I was making was they take a lot of shots. Look at total FGA and they both are just outside top 10 and have missed a few games especially melo.

Wait, so you're saying that players who score a lot of points for their teams take a lot of shots?

That is so interesting and insightful.

Next could you explain to me that water is wet?

[azbroncfan]

Wait, so you're saying that players who score a lot of points for their teams take a lot of shots?

That is so interesting and insightful.

Next could you explain to me that water is wet?

Nice deflection, If you can't understand that I said they score alot of points but take a lot of shot to get those points thus leading to a low FG percentage then you need to go back to 2 grade math.

[RhymesayersDU]

Nice deflection, If you can't understand that I said they score alot of points but take a lot of shot to get those points thus leading to a low FG percentage then you need to go back to 2 grade math.

Except you haven't made a decent point yet. You say the FG percentage is low, but Carmelo shoots better than all the other scorers in the league at the Forward position such as LeBron, T-Mac, and others. The only forwards shooting better than him are the PF's who play close to the basket. Howard, Amare, Etc.

Sure, AI's percentage isn't great, but he's still better than one of the best players in the NBA, Gilbert Arenas. So it's not like it's horrible.

So, any other great points you'd like to make? I mean, I know you're a Jizz fan and want to hate on the Nuggets, but at least try and act like you know something about basketball. It would be appreciated.

[BroncoBuff]

Actually Rhymes - you are correct, but, like az, I often feel Carmelo is a poor shooter - especially close in, oddly enough. You're right of course, the FG% shows otherwise, but I admit I share his frustration.

[azbroncfan]

Hey but at least the Nuggets have a Title right. :thumbsup:

Where has that guy been anyway?

[Rascal]

Nugs finally win.

The last three games are all very winnable. Hopefully they can go 4-0 to close it up before the break and can get Camby and Iverson and others back healthy for the second half.

[broncs2bowl]

Melo's FG percentage is not low!!!! He has better FG percentage than the other scoring leaders right under him. And his percentage is the sam as Lebron James!

[azbroncfan]

Melo's FG percentage is not low!!!! He has better FG percentage than the other scoring leaders right under him. And his percentage is the sam as Lebron James!

But a G will generally have a lower percentage than a F. I little over underestimated Melo and my comments were more torwards Iverson as there is no excuse other than it takes him a lot of shots to get his points.

[broncs2bowl]

OMG! Im scared. 35 seconds left up by two...we better pull this game off. It will tell us a lot about our team and the leader Anthony is without Camby and Iverson playing. Lets go Melo and co.

[Man-Goblin]

I'm thinking about eating crow on Nene....Dude has been pretty awesome lately...

...but not 10 mil a year awesome so I will hold off....ha.

[broncs2bowl]

Phew!....we pulled it off 109-102. Heres to Melo and Nene!

[broncs2bowl]

Go Knicks!! If they hold on to their lead we will be back to only 5.5 games behind Utah

[SureShot]

Phew!....we pulled it off 109-102. Heres to Melo and Nene!

Eddie Najara won that game.

[broncs2bowl]

How? wat happend I didnt actually watch it...I dont have altitude

[SureShot]

He made all the big plays down the stretch. Block shot, altered shots, big jumper, great help defense.

[Obushma]

Go Knicks!! If they hold on to their lead we will be back to only 5.5 games behind Utah

Jazz are going to win the NW, you can put that in the bank. You'll end up the 7th or 8th seed and have a nice first round exit thanks to the Mavs or the Suns.:welcome:

[Rascal]

Nugs might get the 6th seed, as the Lakers have been struggling and are no longer playing all their games at home.

[Clockwork Orange]

Jazz are going to win the NW, you can put that in the bank. You'll end up the 7th or 8th seed and have a nice first round exit thanks to the Mavs or the Suns.:welcome:

They'll be hitting the golf course about the same time as the Jizz then. :~ohyah!:

[Clockwork Orange]

He made all the big plays down the stretch. Block shot, altered shots, big jumper, great help defense.

His knee is finally healthy and he's getting his body back into playing shape. That bloated contract will be hanging over his head no matter what, but now that he's getting right physically, he's a strong contributor. He's averaging 18 points and 8 rebounds per game in February and has been huge in the most recent absence of Marcus Camby.

He and Carmelo are developing some teriffic chemistry. It's no coincidence that Carmelo's assist totals have risen since Nene has been able to play more than 15 minutes per game.

[Rascal]

Hopefully they remember Nene when Iverson and Camby come back. If he averages 15 points per game 8 rebounds and plays good defense, that will be huge with this lineup.

Just need somebody to help take the pressure off Camby and to help with the big boys down below.

[Rascal]

To be honest I'm kind of glad that Iverson is going to sit out till after the break. We need to use these games that he is out to re-establish the chemistry and utilize our role players, and not simply have our game be melo or iverson.

[B-Love]

Earl was soooooo god-awful on D for Denver, that I wanted this Blake-Boykins thing to be one sided in our favor.

Both made statements as to their style of play tonight, albeit in very different fashions. When watching Earl just kill from 3 pt range tonight, it just shows what a controlled guy can do with a personal vendetta. A 5 foot guy almost stole this game tonight.

I know we were down Camby and AI, but thank god Redd was out. Take the Warriors and T-Wolves and let's go into this break feeling good.

[Nuggets4]

Both made statements as to their style of play tonight, albeit in very different fashions. When watching Earl just kill from 3 pt range tonight, it just shows what a controlled guy can do with a personal vendetta. A 5 foot guy almost stole this game tonight.

Problem is, he wouldn't have been that controlled in Denver. Nor will he be this controlled for Milwaukee any other game this year. I still love that deal.

[broncs2bowl]

I think with the emergence of Nene we need to start him even when AI and Camby come back. It should Nene, Camby, AI, Melo, and Steve Blake....a Steve Nash type(not nearly as good of course) pass first shoot 2nd guy in Steve Blake. Two good defenders and rebounders in Camby and Nene. Two beast scorers and leaders in AI and Melo. Bring in JR Smith to boost the offense. Take out Blake and bring in Reggie Evans at the end of games cause after Camby I think he is our best defender.

We have all the tools but we just arent executing and finishing games

[ABA6776]

Except you haven't made a decent point yet. You say the FG percentage is low, but Carmelo shoots better than all the other scorers in the league at the Forward position such as LeBron, T-Mac, and others. The only forwards shooting better than him are the PF's who play close to the basket. Howard, Amare, Etc.

Sure, AI's percentage isn't great, but he's still better than one of the best players in the NBA, Gilbert Arenas. So it's not like it's horrible.

So, any other great points you'd like to make? I mean, I know you're a Jizz fan and want to hate on the Nuggets, but at least try and act like you know something about basketball. It would be appreciated.Dude, they moved from New Orleans and KEPT the "Jazz" name! What does THAT say about Utah. Let's also remember that in the old ABA the Los Angeles STARS moved to Utah and the name also stayed the same......Moronic!!

[azbroncfan]

Dude, they moved from New Orleans and KEPT the "Jazz" name! What does THAT say about Utah. Let's also remember that in the old ABA the Los Angeles STARS moved to Utah and the name also stayed the same......Moronic!!

But at least the nuggets have a title according to some people here.

[ABA6776]

But at least the nuggets have a title according to some people here.I think you mean the Stars have a title....1971 ABA. The Nuggets lost the 1976 ABA Finals to DR. J and the Nets in 6 games. My point was simply that "Jazz" does not fit Utah well and neither did "Stars"

[azbroncfan]

I think you mean the Stars have a title....1971 ABA. The Nuggets lost the 1976 ABA Finals to DR. J and the Nets in 6 games. My point was simply that "Jazz" does not fit Utah well and neither did "Stars"

I know the stars did win a title, but there was a guy here claiming that Denver won the title in 76 and calling others idiots that didn't agree.

You posted the outcome above the nets won the title.

[Obushma]

Dude, they moved from New Orleans and KEPT the "Jazz" name! What does THAT say about Utah. Let's also remember that in the old ABA the Los Angeles STARS moved to Utah and the name also stayed the same......Moronic!!

Dude, yeah man, its just moronic dude...I mean, bro, they moved from New Orleans and kept the name dude.

Hilarious!

Who gives a ****, I wish they would have named themselves the Utah Seagulls but what can ya do. The Utah Jazz have more history then the Denver Thuggets, the Denver Rockets, and the New Orleans Jazz combined.

They'll be hitting the golf course about the same time as the Jizz then.
Nope, Utah will loose in the second round.

[ABA6776]

I know the stars did win a title, but there was a guy here claiming that Denver won the title in 76 and calling others idiots that didn't agree.

You posted the outcome above the nets won the title.All I can say is that I'm a Denver Nuggets fan. I also am honest in that Denver did not win a title. I think that they should've won but unfortunately they did not. This link is great for any other ABA fans here: http://www.remembertheaba.com/ and within you can find THIS information on that Nets/Nuggets series....1976 ABA Championship:
Denver Nuggets (60-24) vs. New York Nets (55-29)
May 1 New York 120, at Denver 118
May 4 At Denver 127, New York 121
May 6 At New York 117, Denver 111
May 8 At New York 121, Denver 112
May 11 At Denver 118, New York 110
May 13 At New York 112, Denver 106
Nets won Championship, 4-2

http://www.remembertheaba.com/PlayoffPages/1976Playoffs.html

[ABA6776]

Dude, yeah man, its just moronic dude...I mean, bro, they moved from New Orleans and kept the name dude.

Hilarious!

Who gives a ****, I wish they would have named themselves the Utah Seagulls but what can ya do. The Utah Jazz have more history then the Denver Thuggets, the Denver Rockets, and the New Orleans Jazz combined.


Nope, Utah will loose in the second round.

Okay, thanks for that. I really appreciate the sarcasm.

[ABA6776]

Jazz are going to win the NW, you can put that in the bank. You'll end up the 7th or 8th seed and have a nice first round exit thanks to the Mavs or the Suns.:welcome:Meanwhile your Putah Jazz haven't won an NBA title either. At least you lead the Nuggets in Finals series' lost:thumbs: I hope you guys make it there and choke again.

[spdirty]

What I thought was pretty damn interesting about last nights game was the Bucks strategy with about 5 minutes left, every time the nugs got the ball, they would intentionally foul Reggie Evans and put him on the line. then as soon as the Nugs had a chance, they intentionally fouled a buck player to sit Reggie for the rest of the game, and inserted Eddie.

[Master___Pain]

But at least the nuggets have a title according to some people here.

One person. Not people. Don't lump the rest of us Nuggs fans in with whoever was laying claim to the Nuggs winning a title.

Actually, you can probably stop bringing that up since you've beaten that horse to death.

[Clockwork Orange]

Carmelo Anthony named Western Conference player of the week.

http://www.nba.com/news/pow_070212.html

30.3 points, 8.3 rebounds & 7.8 assists per game. Not a bad weeks work. :)

[Master___Pain]

Carmelo Anthony named Western Conference player of the week.

http://www.nba.com/news/pow_070212.html

30.3 points, 8.3 rebounds & 7.8 assists per game. Not a bad weeks work. :)

Fantastic numbers. Too bad Melo is a ball hog and needs a lot of shots to get those points.

So I heard on the radio today that AI may opt out of the AS game, meaning Stern would have to select two more injury replacements (the other being Nash, who said he's not going to play in Vegas) Stern has three names, and one of those apparently is Camby. It'd be great to see Camby get in the AS game. Not holding my breath by any means.

[Rascal]

Who else has been happy with the way Nene has been playing of late. I've been really impressed.

Why in the hell do they keep playing Kleiza a lot, let alone starting him?

[Clockwork Orange]

Who else has been happy with the way Nene has been playing of late. I've been really impressed.

Why in the hell do they keep playing Kleiza a lot, let alone starting him?

Nene has been outstanding over the last couple of weeks. He's finally healthy, in shape and able to play more than 20 minutes per game.

Kleiza is playing because he hustles, works hard and does the dirty work. Pretty much the same things that keep Reggie Evans in the lineup.

[Rascal]

I can understand him playing on the b-team but starting?

All well, we won. Let's make it four in a row and finish the first half strong. Just three behind LA.

[Clockwork Orange]

I can understand him playing on the b-team but starting?

All well, we won. Let's make it four in a row and finish the first half strong. Just three behind LA.

They started him at the two because they seem to like bringing JR Smith off the bench and Iverson was out. Once Iverson is back, the starters will be Blake, Iverson, Anthony, Nene & Camby.

[Rascal]

Yeah I know, but I just like the idea of starting JR personally with Iverson being out, and Nene and Camby down low.

All well it looks like it's working.

[Clockwork Orange]

I actually prefer JR coming off the bench. He's a nice scorer for the second unit, deadly when his shot is on. Only problem is his sometimes abysmal shot selection. He can shoot you in or out of a game on any given night. He needs to be reigned in at times.

Still beats the hell out of having Boykins as the top scorer off the bench. :yep:

[Master___Pain]

I actually prefer JR coming off the bench. He's a nice scorer for the second unit, deadly when his shot is on. Only problem is his sometimes abysmal shot selection. He can shoot you in or out of a game on any given night. He needs to be reigned in at times.

Still beats the hell out of having Boykins as the top scorer off the bench. :yep:

Yo, CO. I'm going to the game on the 22nd. If you are going we need to catch a beer.

Nice win tonight. No defense being played but 3 players with 24+ points is great, especially when none of them is named Iverson.

[Paladin]

I didn't catch what happened to Melo....

[Master___Pain]

I didn't catch what happened to Melo....

thigh bruise, I think he's fine

[theAPAOps5]

Nene is getting stronger and stronger. Its good to see as he is one agile big man. Melo shows flashes of what he can do. He made some passes tonight to set up cutters that were awesome to see. I think he holds the ball to long sometimes and takes needless shots but it looks like he is trying to set his teammates up more and more now.

[SureShot]

Its been a long time since Knee'Knee has played with this much confidence.

Keep it up!

[Clockwork Orange]

Yo, CO. I'm going to the game on the 22nd. If you are going we need to catch a beer.

Nice win tonight. No defense being played but 3 players with 24+ points is great, especially when none of them is named Iverson.

Wish I could, bro, but I'm gonna be working evenings until April.

I also want to take this chance to say that the Golden State Warriors might be the most poorly contructed team in the NBA. It seems as if their philosophy was to get as many scorers as possible while acquiring as few role players as possible.

[theAPAOps5]

They have zero role players. Its quite sad for their fans. Its like they are all playing a game of 21 trying to get as many points as possible.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Wish I could, bro, but I'm gonna be working evenings until April.

I also want to take this chance to say that the Golden State Warriors might be the most poorly contructed team in the NBA. It seems as if their philosophy was to get as many scorers as possible while acquiring as few role players as possible.

One word: Nellie.

[Nuggets4]

I like keeping JR coming off of the bench. That way, he gets used to the role and he doesn't have to adjust again. It's a smart move on Karl's part.

Anyone going to the game on the 28th? One of my friends has never been so I'm taking her for her birthday.

[B-Love]

All I can say is that I'm a Denver Nuggets fan. I also am honest in that Denver did not win a title. I think that they should've won but unfortunately they did not. This link is great for any other ABA fans here: http://www.remembertheaba.com/ and within you can find THIS information on that Nets/Nuggets series....1976 ABA Championship:
Denver Nuggets (60-24) vs. New York Nets (55-29)
May 1 New York 120, at Denver 118
May 4 At Denver 127, New York 121
May 6 At New York 117, Denver 111
May 8 At New York 121, Denver 112
May 11 At Denver 118, New York 110
May 13 At New York 112, Denver 106
Nets won Championship, 4-2

http://www.remembertheaba.com/PlayoffPages/1976Playoffs.html

Hey is this Arthur by chance?? PM me if it is you and let me know how you are. Long time no speak.

That game 6 in 1976 was played out here on Long Island, and was a heartbreaker for the Nuggets. They had a 20 point lead in the 4th, or soemthing like that.

You'd have to think they may have won game 7 back at McNichols if they were just able to hang on in game 6.

[Nuggets4]

I doubt that's Arthur. I didn't know you knew Art, Brian. I used to play ball with him once a week. Drop me a PM and I can send Art an e-mail for you.

[B-Love]

I doubt that's Arthur. I didn't know you knew Art, Brian. I used to play ball with him once a week. Drop me a PM and I can send Art an e-mail for you.

I haven't spoken with him in a long time but as you know he's a die hard Broncos fan too. Real nice and great guy!

Arthur picked me up at DIA in September of 2000 and transfered me and my two nephews to downtown Denver. I told him to look for the guy in the old school Craig Morton white jersey so it would be eays to find me. We also met up for lunch on the following Monday as well.

It was the 4th game of the 2000 season where Gus QB'd us to a 23-22 loss to Kansas City.

I gave Arthur some of the rookie John Elway games I was able to find from a private collector.

We spoke a few times after, but I dropped out of the trading circles when my wife took seriously ill.

Yeah send me his e mail.

[RhymesayersDU]

In other news, Mehmet Okur and Ray Allen will replace AI and Nash in Vegas.

[ABA6776]

I doubt that's Arthur. I didn't know you knew Art, Brian. I used to play ball with him once a week. Drop me a PM and I can send Art an e-mail for you.Indeed I am not. I'm just Mark from Colorado Springs. I remember listening to that game on 85 KOA and being so sad after they lost. I really think we had a shot if it had come back to Denver for game 7.

[Master___Pain]

In other news, Mehmet Okur and Ray Allen will replace AI and Nash in Vegas.

Mehmet Okur is an allstar. Is the apocalypse upon us?

[broncs2bowl]

Did anyone here watch the inter view with both Melo and AI on ESPN2: NBA Coast to Coast

[Dagmar]

Melo represented.

[RhymesayersDU]

I enjoyed the all-star festivities. Wished the A-S Game would have been closer, but good times had by all.

Melo had a nice game indeed.

[broncswin]

It's time to win 15 of our next 20 and start making up ground in the west, I don't think we will catch the Jizz but I sure want to get out of the 7 spot. Kind of interested in seeing if Mello and A.I will really mesh. Mello played great going into A.S weekend, I hope he comes out with the same intensity and chip on his shoulder as he did before and during the A.S game. Go NUGGS!!!!!!!!

[azbroncfan]

Spurs pounding the Thuggets. I'm surprised not one post on the game.

[broncs2bowl]

schooled by the spurs

[spdirty]

sounds like JR Smith will be out for the year...Medial collateral tear or something.

[spdirty]

I mean lateral meniscus tear

[broncs2bowl]

JR Smith out for year!!!! HOLY CRAP!! Who is gonna shoot our 3-pointers now AAAAHHHH. Now we rly have to trade for some kind of 3-point shooter.

[Dagmar]

Good night all round then... :(

[spdirty]

JR Smith out for year!!!! HOLY CRAP!! Who is gonna shoot our 3-pointers now AAAAHHHH. Now we rly have to trade for some kind of 3-point shooter.

thats my assumption. If you tear something call a lateral meniscus I think it means you are automatically out for the year and with the Nugs luck he tore it and won't be 100% for at least half of next year. Just my assumption with the way this night has gone.

[ludo21]

man that sux for the Nuggs!

Suns on now, Nash and Thomas back!!

WOOHOO!! now we need Diaw back.

Nash wont be up to game speed for a couple games, but still we are better with him in.

[spdirty]

Who is gonna shoot our 3-pointers now AAAAHHHH.

Youkouba Diawara and Linas Kleiza.ugh!~

[Rascal]

Losing JR hurts.

Hopefully this loss will be a slap to their face and make them realize that win you don't play defense and turn the ball over 10+ times more then your opponent, you aren't going to win very many games. Doubtful.

Iverson was 3-11, and Melo 6-15. Our studs went 9-26. Not going to win very many games doing that.

[ludo21]

33-19 Suns so far

..... yeah, remember when i said it will take Nash a few games to get back to game speed.......

welll i lied ;D

MVP!!! :thumbs:

[RhymesayersDU]

Interesting tidbit from Kelly Dwyer's NBA column today:

• The Denver Nuggets have said and done all the right things since the melee in Madison Square Garden two months ago and they play hard and appear to want to move the ball, but the right attitude only goes so far. These guys need a supporting cast that can shoot straight.

Even if the Nuggets improve a bit, it's hard to see a long playoff run in their future. The Nuggets are seventh in the West, 2½ games behind the Lakers entering Tuesday's play, but it isn't likely that they'll be able to move up past the sixth spot, and even overtaking the Lakers looks like a tall task. Houston (currently fifth) is only going to get better when Yao Ming returns, and Denver already has 6½ games to make up between the two teams.

What Denver needs to do is get its collective head on straight, which means not getting too lost in the frustration inherent in trying to find its way in a tough, tough conference. It can't afford to end the year on a sour note, which could affect the team's confidence as it heads into 2007-08. Not what Nuggets fans want to hear, but the team has dug too big a hole this season to worm its way into the West's elite.

This is a solid defensive team (its heightened pace clouds the squad's defensive acumen) with obvious star potential on the offensive end; and while a surprising playoff run (does anyone think this team is getting past Phoenix or Utah?) may not be in the cards, it can use these last 31 games (plus the truncated playoff run) to determine just what exactly GM Mark Warkentien needs to do this summer to push the Nuggets over the top.


I disagree with his line that we're a solid defensive team, but I agree with his overall premise. We're playing for next season here. We've got to end on a high note, and at least make our 1st round playoff series respectable. Then we can go into the offseason feeling good, and hopefully draft well or do well in free agency.

[Rascal]

San Antonio - The fact that injured Nuggets guard J.R. Smith limped to the team bus Tuesday night was actually a good sign.

Smith left the game, a Nuggets' 95-80 loss to San Antonio, with 5:16 remaining in the second quarter because of a possible lateral meniscus tear in his left knee. But after the game, the injury was downgraded to a muscle strain with a possible meniscus tear.

Smith will be examined again in Denver today and expects to be back soon.

"Hopefully, it's a game or two," said Smith, who had been averaging 15.7 points. "It ain't bad. ... As long as I can walk, I'm all right."

http://www.denverpost.com/nuggets/ci_5269645

[Rascal]

What else could this team possibly need?

We have Melo, Iverson, Camby, Nene (who has played very well lately), and some solid role players in Blake and JR Smith. Plus the team has several quality bench guys.

[RhymesayersDU]

What else could this team possibly need?

We have Melo, Iverson, Camby, Nene (who has played very well lately), and some solid role players in Blake and JR Smith. Plus the team has several quality bench guys.

Well if nothing else, it needs to gel. An off-season and training camp with everybody healthy could do wonders. Another guy who can shoot the rock would be great too.

And I agree, Nene has been playing very well lately. Hopefully this becomes a consistent thing.

[Casper Bronco]

What else could this team possibly need?

We have Melo, Iverson, Camby, Nene (who has played very well lately), and some solid role players in Blake and JR Smith. Plus the team has several quality bench guys.

Answer: A different coach. Of course this isn't going to solve all the problems, but IMO it's the biggest problem.

[Clockwork Orange]

So much for them gaining any chemistry. Injury strikes again.

JR Smith out 3-4 weeks with knee injury. (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2774139)

Kind of tough to gel when guys are in and out of the lineup this frequently. At the same time, it's only so long before you have to start looking at the head coach. Karl did some good things with this team when he took it over, but he seems to be stagnating.

[RhymesayersDU]

Shaun Livingston seriously ****s his knee up last night:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h6Ghupxbj9g

It's pretty gross, be warned. Really sad actually, he had a ton of potential.

[ludo21]

man, thats the first time ive seen that. OUCH!!!!

real sad, he hadnt played as well as they needed him to, but he still is important to that team.

Get well soon Shaun!

Suns overcame a 18 point deficit tonight, I was impressed. No shots were falling, but once they it started to rain, it POUR!!

5-0 since nash is back... whats that i hear.... mvp? ;D

[Clockwork Orange]

Shaun Livingston seriously ****s his knee up last night:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h6Ghupxbj9g

It's pretty gross, be warned. Really sad actually, he had a ton of potential.

I saw that last night. I knew immediatly that it had to be worse than just a dislocation. That was practically Theisman-esque.

Really sad to see. The hopes for this kid were sky high when he was drafted.

[epicSocialism4tw]

I saw that last night. I knew immediatly that it had to be worse than just a dislocation. That was practically Theisman-esque.
Really sad to see. The hopes for this kid were sky high when he was drafted.

That's the second knee dislocation of his short NBA career. Not only did he dislocate his knee, but he tore 3 of 4 knee ligaments. He has a long road back.

[RhymesayersDU]

That's the second knee dislocation of his short NBA career. Not only did he dislocate his knee, but he tore 3 of 4 knee ligaments. He has a long road back.

Indeed he did. 8-12 months out of action, docs are already talking about him not playing next year at all.

That really sucks for his as a ball player, but also for the Clips... How much does Cassell really have in the tank? He can't carry the load at PG by himself next year.

[epicSocialism4tw]

5-0 since nash is back... whats that i hear.... mvp? ;D


Dirk drops 50 on PHX in the WCF.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Vy0kI4SMvo&NR

[theAPAOps5]

Yeah he destroyed most of that knee sad to see. Lots of rehab coming for him hope he makes it back. This being his second one I wonder if he was one of those that went from 5'1" to 6'4" in about two weeks and his knees never recouperated. I watched a team mate of mine get his knee torn up just like that, it happened right next to me the pop was bad. I threw up right there on the field.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Indeed he did. 8-12 months out of action, docs are already talking about him not playing next year at all.

That really sucks for his as a ball player, but also for the Clips... How much does Cassell really have in the tank? He can't carry the load at PG by himself next year.

Livingston has a mountain of potential. I have always wondered about his frame though. An 82 game grind is rough and he looks about an inch think.

I hope that he gets healthy and makes a career out of it, but things arent looking good for him at this point.

[RhymesayersDU]

Dirk drops 50 on PHX in the WCF.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Vy0kI4SMvo&NR

Yet can't make a free throw or two when it really counts. But hey, at least those Suns sure do suck.

[RhymesayersDU]

Livingston has a mountain of potential. I have always wondered about his frame though. An 82 game grind is rough and he looks about an inch think.

I hope that he gets healthy and makes a career out of it, but things arent looking good for him at this point.

It was looking like next year would be his year to take over the starting PG duties. He had a lot of time this year with Cassell being hurt. Every time I saw him play he played pretty well I thought. I don't see a ton of Clips games, but you could tell he was talented.

Hopefully he can rehab it.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Yet can't make a free throw or two when it really counts. But hey, at least those Suns sure do suck.

Dirk was an absolute monster in the playoffs last season, from the tip to the buzzer.

No need to revise history.


If Dirk's worst efforts are 29/15, 20/8, and 16/9, I'll take it every time.

[Clockwork Orange]

It was looking like next year would be his year to take over the starting PG duties. He had a lot of time this year with Cassell being hurt. Every time I saw him play he played pretty well I thought. I don't see a ton of Clips games, but you could tell he was talented.

Hopefully he can rehab it.

It's gonna be a long road. Nene tore just the ACL and it took him until January (over a full calendar year from the actual injury) to come all the way back.

[RhymesayersDU]

So, JR Smith played tonight? That is pretty crazy. At least we're back to .500.

[Clockwork Orange]

So, JR Smith played tonight? That is pretty crazy. At least we're back to .500.

I was listening to it here at work, he played the last two minutes of garbage time. It's gonna take him a little bit to shake the rust and get into game shape.

[Boobs McGee]

wow, Melo finally played something resembling defense tonight.

Pretty awesome 2nd half, Nene is looking amazing. A.I. is seriously one of the baddest mother****ers on the planet.

Rhymes, you gettin any of the games yet?

and by the way, I'd give eddie some kind of award for the crazy heart he's played with all year. that dude is an animal

[Clockwork Orange]

wow, Melo finally played something resembling defense tonight.

Amazing what happens when the head coach finally wakes up long enough to call out him out for it.

Perhaps that was the attention getter that Carmelo needed to get his ass in gear. Not a big scoring night, but he grabbed 7 boards and dished out 6 assists to go with his 21 points. I'll take that over his 35 point, no defense games any day.

[Boobs McGee]

completely agree. He looks so much more polished when he's dishin and eatin glass...like the true superstar we know he is. Did you see that fast break off of Nene's block? I thought for SURE melo was gonna try and throw it down, but what a sweet sweet pass to Camby....who by the way looked very jordanesque gliding through the lane for the no look over the back layup.

Melo can do it all, and whatever Karl told him, he needs to keep tellin him.

btw, did anybody catch A.I's interview with irv and joe on the Fan yesterday? DEFENSE was definitely on his mind for part of it. Maybe he's been talkin to Melo too

[azbroncfan]

Will the thuggets even make the playoffs? They are below 500 now.

[RhymesayersDU]

Nice game from the Nugs today in Sacto.

Need more of that from Linas The Menace.

[broncofan2438]

Wow, they look good, but can they keep it up?
We are going ot need some help and we need to keep winning

[rubaiyat]

Nice game from the Nugs today in Sacto.

Need more of that from Linas The Menace.

Dang it...forgot about the time change. Wanted to catch the second half and it was over.

Can't believe we won. Though every game I've watched or attended was at night, so it's possible the day tip off helped in some way.

More like the dysfunction Artest brings.

Well it can only help free up Bibby. The more PG's on the market the better at least for the Nuggets.

[rubaiyat]

Wow, they look good, but can they keep it up?
We are going ot need some help and we need to keep winning

Despite Az...I do believe we are still 7th. As long as we keep winning at a 1 to 1 ratio we are in.

Too many teams that have to do better and the Lakers are ailing.

[ludo21]

tommorow Suns play Rockets... cant wait for that one, should be fun to see where were at playing a playoff team.

[epicSocialism4tw]

tommorow Suns play Rockets... cant wait for that one, should be fun to see where were at playing a playoff team.

The Rockets are still in a bit of flux. Is the game in Phoenix?


On a more important note ;D , the Mavs go for win #52 and #17 in a row tonight in LA versus the slumping Lakers. Will this be another methodical Mavs victory? ESPiN @ 8pm CST.

[ludo21]

The Rockets are still in a bit of flux. Is the game in Phoenix?


On a more important note ;D , the Mavs go for win #52 and #17 in a row tonight in LA versus the slumping Lakers. Will this be another methodical Mavs victory? ESPiN @ 8pm CST.



they are looking good :thumbs:

but they still gotta get it done come playoff time. ;D

Yep, its in phx... should be fun game. I really wanna get playoff tix, but soooo hard to get them, and id much rather save my money for Broncos tickets... ;D

Playoffs less than a month away, sweeeeet

[Clockwork Orange]

I can't believe the Nuggets won at Arco. I wasn't even old enough to drink last time they did that.

[epicSocialism4tw]

but they still gotta get it done come playoff time. ;D


Kobe "Elbows" Bryant when asked how the Mavs are doing this season:

"Wow!....Umm...I dont think that they have to prove anything..."