Prediction for the Denver Nuggets after the 2024-25 season schedule is released

The opening of training camp for the 2024-25 NBA season is just around the corner, and all eyes will be on the Denver Nuggets. After an unexpected early exit in the playoffs last year, in which they were eliminated by the Minnesota Timberwolves in seven games in the Western Conference Semifinals, the team is ready to redeem itself. With the new season schedule just released, it’s a good time to check out some bold predictions about what we can expect from the Nuggets in the coming months.

Jamal Murray’s All-Star Hope

One of the most anticipated topics this season is whether Jamal Murray will finally earn a selection to the All-Star Game. Despite winning an NBA championship and appearing in several playoff games, Murray has yet to receive All-Star honors. Although coach Michael Malone has emphasized Murray in the playoffs, rather than the All-Star Game, the new season gives Murray a good opportunity to prove himself on the biggest stage.

After last season where he averaged 21.2 points per game and a disappointing performance at the Olympics with Canada, Murray enters the new season with renewed energy. With a newly signed contract extension and a strong desire to shake off some recent bad experiences, Murray is expected to increase his average points to around 24-25 per game. This improvement in his performance would put him in a favorable position to be selected to the final All-Star Game.

Peyton Watson as the new defensive and offensive pillar

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, a key piece on the 2023 championship team, has left the Nuggets to join the Orlando Magic. The important question is who will replace his production. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope was known for his ability to guard key shooters and his jump shooting ability. Peyton Watson, the young forward of the Nuggets, has the ability to fill this void.

Watson had a modest rookie season at UCLA, but was selected in the first round of the draft because of his potential. Last year, he saw an increase in his career, averaging 18.6 minutes per game, but the percentage of three-point shooting was low (29.6%). Regardless, Watson is already one of the team’s most effective defenders. With his offensive ability growing and an extra year of experience, Watson is expected to make a big leap in his third year. If he can improve his three-point shot, he could be a valuable addition on both defense and offense for the Nuggets.

Russell Westbrook’s Entry and Return to the Finals

One of the most notable things the Nuggets got during the offseason was the addition of Russell Westbrook, who was acquired through free agency. In a tight market due to CBA penalties, the Nuggets had few options to upgrade their roster. However, Westbrook represents a significant addition that will impact the team’s performance.

Last season, the Nuggets faced significant challenges. From a weak performance in the first round against the Los Angeles Lakers to blowing a double-digit lead against the Timberwolves in Game 7, the season ended on a disappointing note. This year, the Nuggets have a mix of young players, such as Christian Braun and Julian Strawther, who have the potential to take a leap in their development, and with Westbrook motivated to prove he can still be a big part of the game. in a winning team. .

This combination of youth and experience, along with an exciting Westbrook, is expected to lead the Nuggets back to the NBA Finals. With a season full of expectations, the team has the ability to overcome last year’s obstacles and compete for the championship again.

The Denver Nuggets are facing a high-pressure season hoping to redeem themselves after avoiding disappointment. With Jamal Murray seeking All-Star selection, Peyton Watson playing an important role and Russell Westbrook contributing, the team is poised for an exciting season. The challenges are significant, but if all goes as planned, the Nuggets could be on their way to a return to the NBA Finals and contend for the championship again . The most important thing is the team’s ability to change, improve and take advantage of the opportunities that arise along the way.