In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Mike Singer and deputy sports editor Matt Schubert discuss what's been a newsy few days in the world of the Denver Nuggets. Among the topics discussed:

+ The Nuggets traded forward Bol Bol to the Detroit Pistons for wing Rodney McGruder and a second round pick. Why did the franchise decide to cut bait now? Was this just not the right situation for Bol to thrive? Why was he never able to consistently crack head coach Michael Malone's rotations? How long was the idea of trading Bol in the works? And was this a good enough return for a player with plenty of promise but little results to back it up?
+ Mercurial veteran post DeMarcus Cousins is on the verge of agreeing to a 10-day contract with the Nuggets. Is this a gamble worth taking for a team currently lacking post depth? What are the chances this works, given Malone's previous history with Cousins? How should we expect him to be used in Malone's rotations?
+ Michael Porter Jr. rejoined the team for a couple of days during their recent Texas road swing. How did the young forward look a month removed from his third back surgery? What are the chances either he or Jamal Murray is back on the court by the end of the season?
+ JaMychal Green posted back-to-back productive games after being moved into the starting rotation (by necessity). Is it possible starting JaMychal and bringing Jeff Green off the bench is the best option for the Nuggets?

Producer: AAron Ontiveroz
Music: "Follow the Leader" The Trujillo Company

Bol Bol trade, DeMarcus Cousins' likely signing and Michael Porter Jr.'s state of mind

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Mike Singer and deputy sports editor Matt Schubert reconvene with the start of the regular season less than a week away. Among the topics discussed:

+ Nikola Jokic (wrist) and Jamal Murray (thigh) both sat out preseason games while nursing injuries. Reason for concern? Just the team being extra cautious? Does this say something about how the team will handle their star players' health this season?

+ The Nuggets won back-to-back preseason games, with Michael Porter Jr. looking lithe, Bruce Brown throwing down the defensive clamps and rookie Christian Brain doing a little bit of everything. What are the takeaways from the team's performances?

+ Looking to the season ahead, Singer decides whether or not he's buying or selling a handful of potential storylines for the Nuggets. Among them: Denver Nuggets, top five defense? Nikola Jokic, triple-double season? Bruce Brown, closing out games? Zeke Nnaji, breakout season? The title window is wide open?

Producer: AAron Ontiveroz
Music: "Follow the Leader" The Trujillo Company

Nikola Jokic's wrist, Jamal Murray's thigh and what we're buying as regular season nears

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Mike Singer and deputy sports editor Matt Schubert reconvene with the Nuggets in first place and about to begin an extended homestand. Among the topics discussed:

+ The Christmas night game against the Phoenix Suns produced one of the first signature moments of the season: Aaron Gordon's hellacious dunk over Landry Shamet. Mike and Matt revisit that night, that moment and the Nuggets' recent surge with nine wins in their last 12 games.

+ Buy or sell: Will Bruce Brown keep up his career year from the 3-point line? Will Jamal Murray re-gain his shooting stroke from outside? Will Aaron Gordon make his first All-Star team? Will the Nuggets be buyers or sellers at the trade deadline? And will the Nuggets finish the regular season with the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference?

+ Mike answers questions from listeners, including one wondering why Christian Braun's defensive contributions aren't giving him more minutes, and another who wants to know who might be on the trading block if Nuggets GM Calvin Booth decides to make a move at the deadline.

+ Closing out the show, Matt reads the latest listener reviews from iTunes. And no, he's not 75 years old.

Trade deadline possibilities, Murray's struggles, Malone's rotations and Brown's steady hand

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Mike Singer and deputy sports editor Matt Schubert reconvene with the Nuggets struggling through a losing streak during the dog days of the NBA schedule. Among the topics discussed:

+ The Nuggets have lost four games in a row, with some concerning trends popping up. What's the concern level with the team? Are they tired? Bored? Is there a chance they could lose their grip on the top spot in the Western Conference?

+ Michael Porter Jr. was benched at the end of the Nuggets' home loss to the Brooklyn Nets in favor of Christian Braun. Are we really doing this again? Hasn't MPJ earned the right to have a bad quarter without there being repercussions?

+ The bench continues to scuffle, with trade deadline additions Reggie Jackson and Thomas Bryant struggling to establish themselves. Do the Nuggets have enough time to incorporate their new pieces? Who will coach Michael Malone trust come playoff time?

+ ESPN commentator Kendrick Perkins had some controversial things to say about Nikola Jokic's MVP case. What are we to make of his comments? Did he have any valid points?

Denver's struggles, MPJ's benching and the Nikola Jokic MVP debate

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat reporter Bennett Durando is joined by editor Matt Schubert to discuss the team's media day as well as the first couple days of training camp in San Diego. Among the topics discussed:

+ Is Jamal Murray making the right call betting on himself to make All-NBA team instead of signing an extension?

+ There was a flurry of trade activity just before the start of training camp. Who rules the NBA power rankings after big moves from Phoenix, Milwaukee and Boston, among others?

+ Beef? What beef? Can the Los Angeles Lakers spoil the Nuggets' banner ceremony ahead of their season-opening game at Ball Arena in Denver? The boys discuss what was said by whom leading to the pseudo-beef that has Laker Nation heated.

+ What is the most likely outcome of the point guard position after the departure of Bruce Brown to Indiana? Reggie Jackson hopes his first full season on the roster is his time to shine and an opportunity to prove why so many in Los Angeles Clippers land came to expect huge bailouts on clutch shots from the NBA veteran.

+ Is Christian Braun's newly minted beard the secret to a back-to-back title run through downtown Denver? How about Michael Porter Jr's new ink? That's gotta help.

Jamal Murray bets on himself, Christian Braun grows "beard," Lakers got beef and trade talk

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink Podcast, beat writer Bennett Durando and sports editor Matt Schubert talk ejections, suspensions, injuries and rookie prowess. Among the topics discussed:

+ Is Nikola Jokic being unfairly refereed by officiating crews around the NBA? After getting ejected for the second time this season -- while shooting just six free throws per game — is there a case that the two-time MVP isn't receiving the same whistle as other stars?

+ Draymond Green is off to therapy after his latest heinous act on a basketball court. What is the reality of who he is at this point in his career?

+ Jamal Murray is closer to saying goodbye to a supermax contract as the injuries mount. Is it time for the Nuggets to take a step back and hold him out of more games to allow him time to fully heal? Or is this destined to be a recurring theme this season?

+ Bennett, who has been on the Julian Strawther train since day one, discusses his back-to-back games of note. Is he among the best Michael Malone-era rookies to date? His numbers seem to indicate the veteran-leaning coach is starting to trust the youngster.

+ A fresh batch of reader emails arrived in Matt's inbox (mschubert@denverpost.com), but no new iTunes reviews and an alarming lack of sponsorship dollars from the Northglenn boys basketball program.

Producer: AAron Ontiveroz
Music: “The Last Dragons” by Schama Noel

Nikola Jokic's second ejection, Jamal Murray's nagging injuries and Julian Strawther catching fire

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink Podcast, beat writer Bennett Durando and sports editor Matt Schubert reconvene after a miraculous comeback at Golden State and fourth-quarter fade vs. Orlando. Among the topics discussed:

+ Nikola Jokic didn't call glass from 39 feet, but the basket counted anyway against the Golden State Warriors. Where does the shot rank among the ever-growing lore of Jokic game-winners and clutch shots?

+ Michael Porter Jr. was diplomatic in his response to a question about his lack of fourth-quarter shots. Is this a real problem for the Nuggets? Does Denver need to rethink how it closes out games?

+ Has Peyton Watson surpassed all expectations and fellow young teammates to earn a spot in the conversation of defensive stopper alongside Aaron Gordon and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope?

+ The Kentucky Wildcats draft saw Matt, Bennett and AAron Ontiveroz square off. Who is the Wildcat GM of note?

Producer: AAron Ontiveroz
Music: "The Last Dragons" by Schama Noel

Nikola Jokic's buzzer-beater, Michael Porter Jr.'s fourth-quarter shots and Peyton Watson's defense

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink Podcast, beat writer Bennett Durando and sports editor Matt Schubert reconvene to talk about the one thing that matters most: Nikola Jokic vs. Joel Embiid. Among the topics discussed:

+ In the first matchup of the season between the two men who won the last three MVPs, the 76ers and Joel Embiid came out on top against Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets. Did Philadelphia have the right idea with its defensive strategy?

+ After a recent strong stretch of play, has Michael Porter Jr. become No. 3 in the pecking order for Denver? 

+ The Nuggets find themselves in the midst of a brutal 10-game stretch. What can be learned during this grueling stretch?

+ Does Jokic vs. Embiid have the early makings of Russell vs. Wilt 2.0?

Producer: AAron Ontiveroz
Music: "The Last Dragons" by Schama Noel

Is Nikola Jokic vs. Joel Embiid the NBA's defining rivalry right now?

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, Denver Post beat writer Bennett Durando is joined by Oklahoman beat writer Joel Lorenzi to break down a tight MVP race and the remaining slate of games in the NBA season. Among the topics discussed:

+ Nikola Jokic has come out of the All-Star break on a tear, but can Shai Gilgeous-Alexander get the West’s No. 1 seed and take home his first MVP?

+ Where does Luka Doncic rank? All the stats are there, but do do the Mavs have enough wins for a solid case?

+ Giannis Antetokounmpo is having a career year, but are Jokic and SGA too far ahead of the field?

+ Jayson Tatum is the best player on the best team… does the math add up?

+ Bennett and AAron talk about their All-Star weekend in Indy.

Producer: AAron Ontiveroz
Music: "The Last Dragons" by Schama Noel

Nikola Jokic's place in the NBA MVP race, All-Star weekend and Denver's stretch run

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Bennett Durando and sports editor Matt Schubert reconvene after the Minnesota Timberwolves eliminated Denver in a stunning Game 7 comeback. Among the topics discussed:

+ Where did things go wrong for the Nuggets in the second half of Game 7? What could coach Michael Malone have done differently to stem the tide as Minnesota rallied from 20 points down to advance?

+ How much of the blame for what happened Sunday should be heaped upon the shoulders of superstars Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray? What about the supporting players around them, in particular a cold-shooting Michael Porter Jr.?

+ What part of this result can be pinned on management? Did general manager Calvin Booth not give his head coach enough parts to successfully defend the title? What must be done to avoid this next season?

+ Lastly, Bennett talks about the chain of events that led to Michael Malone blowing up at him in the postgame press conference.

Producer: AAron Ontiveroz
Music: "The Last Dragons" by Schama Noel

Nuggets collapse in Game 7, Michael Malone blows up and what's next for Denver

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Bennett Durando and sports editor Matt Schubert are joined by esteemed author and former Nuggets beat writer Mike Singer. Among the topics discussed:

+ Mike weighs in on what went wrong for the Nuggets after they were eliminated by the Minnesota Timberwolves 4-3 in the Western Conference semifinals. Did Denver not have the depth needed to defend its title? Was this team compromised from the very start?

+ Bennett talks about head coach Michael Malone’s reluctance to rely on youth when the team needed an answer for the unrelenting T-Wolves.  Did the head coach run his players into the ground, as he suggested during an end-of-season news conference? Or did he not have a choice?

+ Mike talks about the work that went into producing his debut book: "Why So Serious? The Untold Story of Nikola Jokic." He shares never-before-heard anecdotes ahead of the book’s upcoming release.

+ After the passing of NBA legend Bill Walton, Mike and Bennett share personal stories of their interactions with the Basketball Hall of Famer.

+ Who wins the finals assuming the Dallas Mavericks eliminate the Timberwolves? The Boston Celtics await the outcome.

Producer: AAron Ontiveroz
Music: "The Last Dragons" by Schama Noel

What went wrong for Denver, what comes next and the Nikola Jokic book to come with Mike Singer

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Bennett Durando and sports editor Matt Schubert reconvene after the Boston Celtics took down the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA Finals. Among the topics discussed:

+ How good are the 2023-24 Boston Celtics after capping off a dominant title run? Did the voters get it right giving the Finals MVP to Jaylen Brown over Jayson Tatum?

+ As the Nuggets continue to bring in draft prospects for visits, are there any names emerging for Denver's first-round pick? There's a lot of smoke with Dayton big man DaRon Holmes II. Could it be that the Nuggets made him a promise? Or might they be looking for a backup PG?

+ Kentavious Caldwell-Pope's decision on opting out of the final year of his contract is coming up. Will the Nuggets guard wait until the last minute to make his decision?

+ Matt, Bennett and AAron draft the past 15 NBA champions to determine which teams rise to the top.

Producer: AAron Ontiveroz
Music: "The Last Dragons" by Schama Noel

Looking back at NBA Finals, assessing draft rumors and an NBA championship draft

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Bennett Durando and sports editor Matt Schubert reconvene after NBA free agency opens and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope leaves for Orlando. Among the topics discussed:

+ Now that KCP has left the Nuggets for the Orlando Magic on a three-year deal, where does that leave Denver? Is Christian Braun ready for a bigger role? How will his exit cascade down through the rest of the roster?

+ There's been rumors about the Nuggets kicking the tires on Russell Westbrook as a possible addition. Would he be a good fit in Denver? Is Jamal Murray signing an extension?

+ Did Calvin Booth give up too much draft capital to move up and acquire DaRon Holmes with the 22nd overall pick of the NBA draft? How will Holmes slot into the lineup? Should Nuggets fans be worried that Booth has traded away so many picks, including the two second-rounders he had to send Charlotte to get off Reggie Jackson's salary?

+ Who has improved the most early on in free agency? Are the Oklahoma City Thunder suddenly the no-doubt favorites in the Western Conference?

Producer: AAron Ontiveroz
Music: "The Last Dragons" by Schama Noel

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope leaves, DaRon Holmes arrives and free agency hits the NBA

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Bennett Durando and sports editor Matt Schubert reconvene with media day just one week away. Among the topics discussed:

+ Jamal Murray is officially locked up. The Nuggets' star point guard signed a four-year, $208.5 million extension after an up-and-down summer that concluded with a sub-par showing at the Paris Olympics.  What does the deal mean for the Nuggets long-term? Was this a move the team had to make?

+ Looking back at the Olympics, Bennett talks about his experience watching Serbia and Team USA face off in the group stage of the Summer Games. Who impressed most in Paris? Is there anything that can be taken from those games that applies to this upcoming NBA season?

+ Our old friend Mike Singer has joined the Nuggets front office. A good addition? Or a great addition? 

+ The fellas draft all 30 NBA teams based upon how many wins they think each team will finish with.

Producer: AAron Ontiveroz
Music: "The Last Dragons" by Schama Noel

Jamal Murray's max extension, Denver's "intelligent" front office hire and a 30-team NBA draft

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Bennett Durando and sports editor Matt Schubert reconvene with the regular season set to tip off. Among the topics discussed:

+ Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon got his contract extension -- a four-year, $133 million deal that could have him in Denver through the 2028-29 season. Is the value good? What does this mean for the team long-term?

+ Bennett goes abroad and recounts stories from his time in the United Arab Emirates, where he covered a couple of Nuggets preseason games and saw Nikola Jokic's old team, Mega, in Dubai.

+ Jamal Murray had a bit of a bumpy preseason with a "funny" knee and a couple of off shooting nights. Cause for concern or just the normal getting-ready-for-the-season routine for Murray?

+ Bennett makes some Nuggets over/under predictions as Matt cooks up the stats.

Producer: AAron Ontiveroz
Music: "The Last Dragons" by Schama Noel

Jamal Murray's preseason, Aaron Gordon's contract and 2024-25 season predictions

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Bennett Durando and sports editor Matt Schubert reconvene two weeks into the regular season. Among the topics discussed:

+ The Nuggets are 4-3 with several narrow wins on the resume that revealed more than a few holes. And now the national media is in a panic over Denver's title window. Time to pump the breaks?

+  The boys dig into a few overreactions in a game of "It might be early, but .." Chief among those hot takes: Is it time to start worrying about Jamal Murray?

+ Has Christian Braun already proven himself an upgrade over Kentavious Caldwell-Pope in the Nuggets' starting lineup? What happens if Aaron Gordon continues his torrid 3-point shooting? Is this the worst second unit of the Nikola Jokic era? Speaking of the big fella: Is the Joker really going to win the MVP yet again?

+ On the other side of the break, Matt offers up a few more overreactions from around the NBA, then the boys open up the mailbag.

Christian Braun's ascendance, Jamal Murray's slow start and Aaron Gordon's a sharpshooter?

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Bennett Durando and sports editor Matt Schubert reconvene as trade season begins in the NBA. Among the topics discussed:

+ Zach Lavine to the Denver Nuggets ... not so fast, sweetheart. Can the front office make a pitch to move enough pieces to upgrade -- Or not upgrade? — a roster that has left fans wondering if the glory of 2023 can return to the Mile High.

+ If not Lavine, then who? Jordan Poole, Cam Johnson? Is MPJ worth keeping, if the market yields parallel moves?

+ Jamal Murray does Jamal Murray things in Sacramento. Is his early-season lull an aberration? Will he return to form?

+ The Bucks win the in-season tournament. Can the Nuggets find a way to take seriously the fledgling competition or are their sights solely set on another NBA Finals run this season and for years to come?

Producer: AAron Ontiveroz
Music: "The Last Dragons" by Schama Noel

Is Zach LaVine really worth trading Michael Porter Jr. for?

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Bennett Durando and sports editor Matt Schubert reconvene after Denver's annihilation of Philadelphia. Among the topics discussed:

+ Is the Joel Embiid-Nikola Jokic debate officially over? Will the 76ers big man ever play in Denver again? Is the new big-man rivalry between Jokic and Victor Wembanyama?

+ The Nuggets are red hot after winning six of their last seven games. How much of this run can be pinned on the injury woes affecting their opponents? How much is just the Nuggets hitting their stride? How much is getting Aaron Gordon back in the lineup?

+ The recent run of success also happens to have coincided with the insertion of Russell Westbrook into the starting lineup. Should the Nuggets keep the veteran point guard in the starting five, even after Gordon is fully acclimated? Should Christian Braun go to the bench? Or should Michael Malone go back to his original starting five as early as possible?

+ Is Nikola Jokic's elbow injury a cause for concern? Why won't he share what caused the injury in the first place? Matt goes full tinfoil hat conspiracy theorist.

+ The fellas power rank the Nuggets' biggest threats in the Western Conference.

Producer: AAron Ontiveroz
Music: "The Last Dragons" by Schama Noel

Nikola Jokic puts final nail in Embiid debate, Russell Westbrook thrives and Aaron Gordon returns

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Bennett Durando and sports editor Matt Schubert reconvene after a pair of Denver losses. Among the topics discussed:

+ The Nuggets emptied the tank in an effort to end a five-game skid vs. Minnesota, with Nikola Jokic putting up a 61-point triple-double. Yet after Russell Westbrook's regrettable 14 seconds, Denver dropped that game and another to the Spurs with their starters watching from the bench. Was it worth the gamble? Are there positives that can be taken from the double OT loss?

+ The No. 2 seed now looks like a distant dream for Denver. And the No. 3 is no guarantee either. With a muddled mess below Oklahoma City and Houston in the West, who do the Nuggets most want to see in the first round?

+ What confidence level do the boys have in the Nuggets' key players? The fellas hash it out in the second half of the podcast with the NBA playoffs looming in a couple of weeks.

Producer: AAron Ontiveroz
Music: "The Last Dragons" by Schama Noel

Russell Westbrook's Minnesota mistake, the Western pecking order and a confidence game

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Bennett Durando and sports editor Matt Schubert reconvene hours after the stunning firings of Michael Malone and Calvin Booth. Among the topics discussed:

+ Why now? Why did team president and owner Josh Kroenke fire his head coach and top executive with just three games left in the regular season and the Nuggets in the middle of a playoff race?

+ Was there any indication this was about to happen? Is the franchise throwing in the towel on the season? How will this impact the Nuggets as they chase a second championship in three seasons?

+ What is the plan moving forward? What does this mean for the rest of the roster? Who's safe? Who could be on their way out? And who might the Kroenkes pick to turn things around?

Producer: AAron Ontiveroz
Music: "The Last Dragons" by Schama Noel

Michael Malone, Calvin Booth fired in stunning franchise shakeup

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Bennett Durando and sports editor Matt Schubert reconvene as Denver prepares to face the Los Angeles Clippers in the NBA Playoffs. Among the topics discussed:

+ The Nuggets closed out the regular season 3-0 under interim head coach David Adelman. What's the vibe around the team been since the firing of Michael Malone and Calvin Booth? Was it the right call to turn to Adelman?

+ Awaiting the Nuggets in the first round of the playoffs? The red-hot Los Angeles Clippers. How do they match up against a Los Angeles roster that appears deeper and more talented? Who holds the edge on the perimeter? In the paint? Could Adelman provide a measure of unpredictability that gives Denver an advantage?

+ A break down the rest of the matchups in the Western Conference, including a fun one on the opposite side of the bracket between the Los Angeles Lakers and Minnesota Timberwolves.
Where does Clippers wing Kawhi Leonard rank among the scariest individual playoff performers in the field? The fellas pull off an impromptu draft.

+ How did Bennett's NBA awards ballot go? Did Nikola Jokic earn his MVP vote? All is revealed.

Producer: AAron Ontiveroz
Music: "The Last Dragons" by Schama Noel

A Nuggets-Clippers playoff preview, an NBA awards ballot reveal and the scariest postseason performers

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Bennett Durando and sports editor Matt Schubert reconvene as Denver heads to Los Angeles for Game 3 of its first-round NBA Playoffs series against the Clippers. Among the topics discussed:

+ Two games into the series and things are deadlocked in more ways than one. Total score: 215-214, Clippers. Total turnovers: 31-31. Games won: 1-1. So who has the edge ahead of Game 3? Should we expect more of the same in Los Angeles?

+ Kawhi Leonard torched the Nuggets for 39 points on 15-of-19 shooting in Game 2. What can Denver do to slow down the Clippers' superstar as the series shifts to L.A.?

+ Is Nikola Jokic hurt? The Nuggets big man has struggled from the free-throw line and even threw a sleeve on his arm midway through Game 2. What can interim head coach David Adelman do to get his superstar untracked?

+ Michael Porter Jr. responded to a Game 1 dud with a much better performance in Game 2, yet a costly end-of-game turnover left him blaming himself for the loss. The veteran forward also revealed his breaking in a new brace on his foot. What does that mean going forward?

+ More: Is Christian Braun lacking aggression or are the Clippers simply limiting what he does well? Russell Westbrook keeps hitting big shots ... and doing other things. Are the pros outweighing the cons? Is David Adelman holding his how against Ty Lue? How impressive was Jamal Murray's UFC-style hoisting of Norman Powell? And why was he wearing a long-sleeve undershirt?

Producer: AAron Ontiveroz
Music: "The Last Dragons" by Schama Noel

Kawhi Leonard goes nuclear, Nikola Jokic dons a sleeve and Russell Westbrook rides the rollercoaster

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Bennett Durando and sports editor Matt Schubert reconvene after Denver's stunning Game 1 comeback against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Among the topics discussed:

+ The Nuggets rallied from 13 points down in the fourth quarter to take down Oklahoma City on its home court in Game 1 of their Western Conference semifinal series. How did the Nuggets pull it off? And how does the ball keep finding Aaron Gordon in these clutch moments?

+ How much did coaching decisions play into the dramatic final minutes of the game? Did Oklahoma City coach Mark Daigneault err in sticking with his fouling strategy with Nikola Jokic off the court? Was it wise to extend the game with his team leading by three in the final seconds?

+ Is there any doubt about Nikola Jokic's MVP bona fides after his heroic Game 1 performance?

+ Russell Westbrook continues to shine in the playoffs. Is this version of the Russ fans should expect to see as the series ramps up?

+ What is the legacy of the Nuggets' series win over the Clippers? Who gained the most from those seven games? And what does it say about Denver that it's advanced to the second round of the NBA Playoffs six times in seven years?

Producer: AAron Ontiveroz
Music: "The Last Dragons" by Schama Noel

Aaron Gordon, Nikola Jokic and Denver's Game 1 stunner in Oklahoma City

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Bennett Durando and sports editor Matt Schubert reconvene after Denver's Game 4 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Among the topics discussed:

+ Game 4 reactions: The worst first quarter in the history of baskets or balls? Yes.

+ What's to blame for the poor start? Tired legs? The 36-hour crunch between games? Both?

+ What's wrong with Nikola Jokic? Another tough outing has some wondering if the arm sleeve is thinly concealing a nagging injury. The 3-point and free throw lines weigh in.

+ Conversely, has anyone done more to elevate their stock than Aaron Gordon in these NBA Playoffs? Could the Nuggets ever consider trading a player who's cemented his status as one of the most beloved players on the team?

+ What do the Nuggets need to do to survive the Thunder and advance to the Western Conference Finals?

Producer: AAron Ontiveroz
Music: "The Last Dragons" by Schama Noel

Nikola Jokic's struggles, Aaron Gordon's heroics and a Game 4 fade vs. Thunder

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Bennett Durando and sports editor Matt Schubert reconvene after Denver's elimination from the NBA Playoffs. Among the topics discussed:

+ The Nuggets' season not-so-mercifully came to an end in a Game 7 blowout loss at the Oklahoma City Thunder. What was the biggest culprit in their demise? Did the Thunder's cynical approach to overtly physical defense finally break Nikola Jokic? Did Denver even stand a chance after all of the injuries and its relative lack of depth?

+ How did the Nuggets get here? Who is ultimately responsible for their second consecutive exit in the Western Conference semifinals? Is this all on former general manager Calvin Booth? What role did Michael Malone play in the team's inability to develop long-term depth? Is there even some blood on Tim Connelly's hands?

+ Now that the season is finished, where do the Nuggets go from here? Without any draft picks to add to the roster, are there moves that can be made to improve the roster or shake things up? What about trades? Could Michael Porter Jr. be on the trading block? What about Aaron Gordon or Jamal Murray? The fellas open up the trade machine to dive into a few possibilities.

+ Did David Adelman do enough to take over as head coach for the 2025-26 season? Will the Nuggets opt to promote from within to fill both that opening and then one for general manager?

Producer: AAron Ontiveroz
Music: "The Last Dragons" by Schama Noel

What's next after Denver is eliminated by Oklahoma City Thunder?

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Bennett Durando and sports editor Matt Schubert reconvene with the NBA Finals on tap. Among the topics discussed:

+ Speaking to reporters twice in the span of a few weeks, Nuggets President and Governor Josh Kroenke made it clear he thinks the answers to Denver's problems are internal. Then he backed that up by officially hiring interim coach David Adelman as head coach. How much pressure does that put on Adelman to get the team back to title contention?

+ Do Kroenke's words mean we can expect another internal hire for the general manager opening? Who might that be? When will that decision be made? And who are some of the bargain free agents they can target?

+ Are the Nuggets about to become a half-court team with a totally remade defensive strategy? Changes to the coaching staff seem to indicate that while there is an emphasis on maintaining the status quo, things won't be entirely the same schematically.

+ Bennett and Matt give an assessment of each of the Nuggets on the roster. Is their stock up, down or holding steady? And what does that mean for their future in Denver?

Producer: AAron Ontiveroz
Music: "The Last Dragons" by Schama Noel

Taking stock of Denver's roster following David Adelman's hire as head coach

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Bennett Durando and sports editor Matt Schubert reconvene three days after the stunning trade of Michael Porter Jr. to the Brooklyn Nets. Among the topics discussed:

+ The Nuggets' two-man brain trust turned Porter's salary into four players: Cam Johnson, Jonas Valanciunas, Bruce Brown and Tim Hardaway Jr. How in the world did they pull this off? And how long had executives Ben Tenzer and Jon Wallace been mapping this out?

+ How much better does this make the Nuggets? What will the rotation look like come October? And how many of these players will actually be able to give the Nuggets depth in the postseason?

+In light of the first two weeks of the Tenzer-Wallace era, what's the confidence in this setup working going forward? Could other moves be made? Could these wizards find a way to dump Zeke Nnaji's contract, too? Maybe cure cancer?

+ Ranking the contenders after free agency and the draft: The boys all provide their our own Top 10 following player acquisition season.

+ Loose ends: Thoughts on the NBA Finals and the tragedy that was Tyrese Haliburton's Game 7 injury.

Producer: AAron Ontiveroz
Music: "The Last Dragons" by Schama Noel

Rehashing the Michael Porter Jr. trade and an incredible 24 hours for Ben Tenzer and Jon Wallace

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Bennett Durando and sports editor Matt Schubert reconvene following DaRon Holmes II's glorious return to NBA Summer League. Among the topics discussed:

+ Nikola Jokic caused a stir in NBA circles by ... doing nothing?! Denver's MVP center became extension-eligible last week but declined to sign on the dotted line, according to league sources. Here's why Nuggets fans need not freak out — yet.

+ Jonas Valanciunas caused a stir in NBA circles by ... visiting Greece?! The recently acquired backup to Jokic was offered a three-year contract by EuroLeague power Panathinaikos, and Valanciunas signaled mutual interest by visiting Greece. Yet the Nuggets hold all the cards. What happens next?

+ Nuggets big man DaRon Holmes II returned to NBA Summer League a year after rupturing an Achilles tendon at the very same venue. How did the second-year player look? And how might he slot into what's becoming a deep Nuggets rotation?

+ With the Cam Johnson-MPJ trade now complete, the fellas ponder if the Nuggets might now have a better starting five than when the franchise won the NBA title in 2023.
What's Denver's best public park? You better believe the fellas have some opinions.

Producer: AAron Ontiveroz
Music: "The Last Dragons" by Schama Noel

Nikola Jokic passes on extension, Jonas Valanciunas visits Greece and Summer League

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Bennett Durando and sports editor Matt Schubert reconvene ahead of Denver's media day. Among the topics discussed:

+ What will Jonas Valanciunas say in his first encounter with Denver media? Will Christian Braun sign an extension ahead of the season? Is Bruce Brown already writing love notes to Nikola Jokic? With media day just days away, it's time to talk storylines.

+ The annual wins draft. Bennett won in 2024-25. Who takes the crown in 2025-26? Could the Charlotte Hornets really be a dark horse playoff pick in the Eastern Conference?

+ Will Nikola Jokic win another MVP? Who will be the NBA champion? The fellas make their picks.

+ Emails and iTunes reviews ... would've been read had anyone sent them in!

Nuggets media day storylines and the annual NBA wins draft

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Bennett Durando and sports editor Matt Schubert reconvene after the first week of the regular season. Among the topics discussed:

+ Jamal Murray is tired of hearing about slow starts, and he proved as much Monday night by dropping 43 points on the Minnesota Timberwolves. Is this the year Murray finally gets the All-Star recognition that's eluded him?

+ Aaron Gordon got the season started with a 50-burger against the Golden State Warriors. The Nuggets forward says he's not as athletic as he once was, but is he the best he's been at basketball, as he contended this offseason?

+ Is Tim Hardaway Jr. going to be the Nuggets' sixth man all season? How has Jonas Valanciunas fit in with the second unit? Is Julian Strawther going to remain tethered to the bench?

+ Christian Braun got his big-money extension, but fellow fourth-year player Peyton Watson didn't. What does that mean for them and the future of the franchise?

+ How has new head coach David Adelman fared running the show? His rotations? His adjustments? What's been different between how he runs things and how Michael Malone did?

+ Emails and iTunes reviews ... would've been read had anyone sent them in!

Producer: AAron Ontiveroz
Music: "The Last Dragons" by Schama Noel

Jamal Murray goes off, Christian Braun gets paid and Aaron Gordon goes hyphy

In this week's edition of Nuggets Ink, the Denver Post Nuggets Podcast, Matt Schubert and Denver Post beat writer Bennett Durando discuss Jamal Murray's spectacular start to the season,  his chances of finally making an All-Star Game and more. 

Jamal Murray's All-Star chances and Matt Schubert's departure as sports editor

A Denver Nuggets podcast by The Denver Post. 611763

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