As Carmelo Anthony grows up, the Nuggets chance at success comes into view.
Chauncey Billups (photo by Michael Mendez)
Setting the pace for the marathon that is the Western Conference, the Denver Nuggets are out to their best franchise start since 1975; except these days our oppenents don’t consist of the Kentucky Colonels or New York Nets. No, to start this well in an era of biomechanically built hoop stars who earn 7 digits or more per year, this is something special.
With last years core players still in tact, the Nuggets have not sacrificed in any area of their game. Defensively through 5 games Denver is averaging 8 steals and 5.5 blocks per game; offensively, averaging 115.5 points per game (up 13 points from last season thru 5 games) and an average winning margin of 13.6 points through 5 games. However, are 5 games enough to separate the sheep from the goats? I say, with a healthy, undistracted group of Nuggets, this season could be our chance at finally clearing that Laker bar that seemed insurmountable.
Now, who is the conductor of this steamroller? Initially I would say Chauncy without blinking, however, can it be, has Melo finally grasped his role as a leader on this team? I say yes! Averaging 32.2 points per game, Carmelo Anthony looks healthier & more determined than ever to outshine those to whom he is compared: Kobe, Wade, James; even earning the Western Conference ‘Player of the Week’. With a strong supporting cast, Chauncey can finally unload some of the pressure of which Melo seems to have graciously excepted.
This 2009-2010 Nuggets squad has a great mix of youth and experience, giving opponents a hassle on the court. The one-two punch of the speedy Lawson and time-managing Billups provides two very effective shifts on the court. George Karl still seems his quiet, bench warming self on the sidelines, but that may be all that’s needed with this group of players; I’m sure Jim Tracy would approve. I think Nuggets fans should do the same, just lay back and enjoy the show, soak in all this team has to offer. With 82 games (well, 77 games) left in the season, Denver is off to a great start with hopes of a great finish.
