Can Nikola Jokic and Co Repeat? Key Takeaways as Coach Malone Reveals Nuggets’ Secret Sauce After Dominant Start

The defending champions Denver Nuggets are off to a dominant start to the 2023-24 season. The team claimed six wins out of their seven outings, most so far in the season. Nikola Jokic, the franchise spearhead, has continued from where he left off in the last season. The important question is: will the Nuggets repeat their 2022-23 glory this season? Let’s find out the key factors that could drive the team to their second championship in a row.

Additionally, the team’s head coach Michael Malone shared his secret sauce for success in the post-game press conference. Meanwhile, the team is currently undergoing a Jamal Murray injury scare. With a lot of things on the plate to process, let’s find out the Nuggets’ current position in the league.

No championship hangover

The Nuggets are currently playing like true defending champions. The Golden State Warriors, the 2022 Champions, started off the previous season, struggling to penetrate their on-the-road games. Whereas, the Nuggets are playing to their strength, ticking off all the boxes on their list. Apart from their disappointing loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, they won every other game with a comfortable margin.

Nikola Jokic’s secret sauce

The franchise leader, Nikola Jokic, like always, takes control over the paint and the rim. The superstar not only averages 27.4 points but also has an impressive rebounding average of 12.7. While asked about the continued domination, the superstar’s head coach Michael Malone said, “Honestly? Hard work… There is no magic formula… He is incredibly gifted, a high IQ… But, I just give credit to his high work ethic.” 

He also mentioned how the Joker puts in all his efforts, even during practice sessions.

Perfect support cast

Importantly, the team isn’t entirely dependent on the spearhead, but also on the crucial roles played by his teammates. Notably, Jamal Murray, who almost won the Finals MVP last season with his shooting skills. Apart from Murray, the team can rely on Aaron Gordon, Michael Porter Jr., and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. Moreover, Caldwell-Pope can deliver on both ends of the court, as credited by Malone.

Read More – Michael Malone Calling Out Aaron Gordon Working Wonders for Nikola Jokic and Co

The continued domination proves that the Nuggets don’t have any hiccups, and will look to clinch their second ring. However, the team might have a major concern regarding Murray’s injury. 

The Jamal Murray concern

During the Saturday night encounter against the Chicago Bulls, Jamal Murray exited the game at the start of the second quarter after sustaining a hamstring injury. Murray has already scared the Nuggets Nation once with his grave injury in 2021. That one was a season-ending injury. However, the recent reports suggest that the injury this time isn’t as grave as the previous one and he could return to the court soon.

Will the Nuggets win their second ring? Let us know in the comments below. 

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