The Denver Nuggets are considered one of the top teams in the NBA thanks to their high-end talent and balanced starting lineup. The unit of Jamal Murray, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Michael Porter Jr., Aaron Gordon, and Nikola Jokic has been dominant, with a +13.1 points per 100 possessions differential. This level of success is a good indicator for a championship-caliber team.
However, the Nuggets have struggled with their bench this season. No player coming off the bench has a positive point differential when on the floor for over 200 non-garbage time minutes. Last year, Denver consolidated their rotation to rely on three key bench players, but two of them have since left the team without any trades made at the deadline to fill the gaps left by their departure.
The central question now is whether the current roster has enough depth to support a three-man bench that can help the Nuggets repeat as NBA Champions. To answer this question, it is important to understand the key contributions that the departed bench players made last season and how the current bench players are attempting to fill those roles.
Christian Braun, a returning player, has proven his value in physicality and defensive matchups. He will need to step up even more in the absence of Jeff Green, offering a strong defensive presence with his size and toughness. Reggie Jackson, who saw limited playing time in the playoffs last year, brings valuable secondary creation and veteran experience to the team.
Peyton Watson, a rookie, is under pressure to perform after being highlighted by Nuggets’ general manager Calvin Booth as a key defensive asset. Watson has shown promise as a defender and shot-blocker, but his lack of experience and offensive productivity remain concerns. However, with support from Jackson and Braun, Watson could fill a crucial role in providing rim protection for the team.
Recent performances from Braun, Jackson, and Watson in a crucial late-season game against the Timberwolves have been promising, with all three players logging positive numbers and contributing in their respective roles. With the stellar performance of their starting lineup, the Nuggets only require their bench players to fulfill specific roles effectively. While the true test will come in the playoffs, it seems that the trio of Braun, Jackson, and Watson may have what it takes to support Denver’s championship aspirations.
