The Phoenix Suns extended their winning streak to 12 games as they cruised to any easy victory over the undermanned Denver Nuggets on Sunday Night. The Nuggets were without starters Nikola Jokic and Michael Porter Jr., along with Zeke Nnaji. Rookie Bones Hyland left the game after playing two minutes because he turned right ankle. Tonight’s game deserves no analysis. The final score of 126-97 sums the game up.
After the ugly loss, the dark cloud continued to hang over Nuggets Nation, with a report from Mike Singer, the Denver Nuggets beat reporter for the Denver Post. The report entailed that Michael Porter Jr. is dealing with a severe nerve issue in his lower back which may require surgery, and as result, could end his season. Here is a link for the story: https://www.denverpost.com/2021/11/21/nuggets-michael-porter-jr-nerve-injury-back-surgery/
Baring improvement over the next few days, Denver could be without their newly extended max-contract sharp shooter for at least the rest of the year. A huge blow to a team who is already down Jamal Murray. But, it is not time to throw the towel in the season just yet.
Denver continues to have strong production from role players Monte Morris, Aaron Gordon, and Will Barton. They also have the best player in the league. With Jamal Murray hopeful to return sometime in 2022, Denver could still be poised to make a deep playoff run.
This would require a myriad of problems to improve for the Nuggets. They need everyone to get healthy and stay healthy as the season progresses. Second, they need improvement from their second unit, which is starting to happen in spurts, but is not consistent. Lastly, they need to be a top-five defense, which is possible with a healthy Jokic.
The Nuggets have all of the elements of championship team and they have overcome adverse moments in the past. There is no reason to doubt them now.
Stats Tell Stories 