Nuggets believe they can win 60 games
By Chris Tomasson, Rocky Mountain News (Contact)
Published September 27, 2008 at 8:30 a.m.
Updated September 27, 2008 at 9:54 a.m.
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Predictions this season regarding the Nuggets have been less than flattering.
Third place in the Northwest Division, which never has been called a “Group of Death.”
Losing record.
Watching the playoffs on television.
But none of those predictions is coming from the Nuggets.
Despite the fact that they lost defensive stalwart Marcus Camby, Nuggets players are making big boasts as training camp is set to begin Tuesday.
“We’ve got a chance to win 50 to 60 (games),” forward Carmelo Anthony said. “We’ve got a chance to be one of the best teams in the NBA.”
Anthony spoke of 60 last season, and the Nuggets went 50-32. But guard Allen Iverson and forward Kenyon Martin said they have the talent to add 10 to that.
“Sixty games,” Martin said. “We won 50 games last year and came in eighth place (in the West). It will take 60 to be in the top three. So, I think so.”
Camby was dealt to the Clippers in July for next to nothing, and forward Eduardo Najera bolted to New Jersey as a free agent. That’s why many believe the Nuggets will take a step back.
But Denver’s players don’t think so.
“We’re going to quiet a lot of people’s mouths,” vows Nene, who will replace Camby as the starting center.
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September 27, 2008
10:53 a.m.
Suggest removal
Brad writes:
Are they serious they had trouble getting to 50 last year they will not do that well this year. This team does not play any defense and against the better teams they can't play at either end of the court.
September 27, 2008
11:08 a.m.
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jsppro1 writes:
60 Games, wait a second ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha and I am probaly one of the biggest Nugget fans. I would love to see it, hell why not say 70. ANYTHING POSSIABLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Sorry Mr Garnett!
September 27, 2008
11:53 a.m.
Suggest removal
Spider writes:
i WOULD LOVE TO SEE IT....BUT NOT WITH THAT DEFENSE!
September 28, 2008
10:18 a.m.
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arrangerx writes:
The first 20 games will tell the tale. . . don't forget, the young core of players (J.R., Kleiza, Anthony, Nene) are a year more experienced. Iverson can still score. . . . and. . . perhaps this crop of foward/centers will actually play IN POSITION as compared to Camby playing point/forward and leaving gaping holes in the paint. Point guard will still be an issue. . . but 55? Not out of the question if Nene stays healthy.
September 28, 2008
3:13 p.m.
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jsppro1 writes:
Hey arrangerx I agree, once again a tall point is needed.
September 29, 2008
7:34 a.m.
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jmdeshazer writes:
Play defense like the Boston Celtics or the San Antonio Spurs, and you will win 60. Play defense like the last 5 years, and you'll win 42.