The Denver Nuggets are set to open their 2024-25 NBA season with high expectations, as they prepare to face the Oklahoma City Thunder on October 24. After a solid preseason, the team remains focused on addressing areas that need improvement, with reigning NBA Finals MVP Nikola Jokić making clear his thoughts on their readiness. Despite some inconsistent performances during preseason games, the Nuggets are widely considered to be strong contenders for another deep postseason run.
One of the major storylines heading into the new season is the Nuggets’ decision to lock in Aaron Gordon with a significant four-year, $133 million contract extension. Gordon, who has been a key player for the team since his arrival from the Orlando Magic in 2021, has played an essential role in the team’s success, particularly during their championship run. His physicality, defense, and ability to score inside have made him a valuable asset to Denver’s system, especially when paired with Jokić’s elite playmaking. The extension signals the team’s commitment to maintaining their championship core as they aim for another title.
Gordon’s versatility has been crucial for head coach Michael Malone, who praised his forward for taking on different roles depending on what the team needed in any given situation. Whether defending the opposing team’s best player or adding much-needed offense, Gordon’s adaptability will continue to be a cornerstone of Denver’s strategy going forward. By securing him for the long term, the Nuggets ensure that they remain competitive in an increasingly tough Western Conference.
In addition to Gordon’s extension, the Nuggets have made several roster changes designed to add depth and experience to their lineup. One of the most notable additions is veteran guard Russell Westbrook, who signed with the team during the offseason. Westbrook’s arrival has raised eyebrows, as the former MVP looks to rejuvenate his career after several up-and-down seasons. His leadership, energy, and ability to push the pace could provide the Nuggets with a different dynamic on the floor, complementing their already established stars.
The Nuggets also brought in Dario Šarić, a versatile forward-center, to help bolster their frontcourt depth. Known for his basketball IQ and passing ability, Šarić can fill multiple roles for the team, giving Malone more options as they navigate the long grind of the regular season. Alongside other key contributors like Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr., Denver’s roster looks well-equipped to handle the challenges ahead.
Despite these new faces, the focus remains on Jokić, the driving force behind the Nuggets’ success. Coming off a historic Finals MVP run, Jokić has firmly established himself as one of the best players in the league. His comments about the team’s preseason struggles reflect his competitive nature and high standards. As always, the Serbian center will be the centerpiece of Denver’s offense, orchestrating plays from the post and perimeter while serving as a key defensive anchor.
As the Nuggets prepare for their season opener, their goals are clear: build on last year’s success, remain healthy, and position themselves for another championship run. With their core intact and fresh talent on the roster, Denver enters the new season with a mix of confidence and determination. Whether they can maintain their momentum will depend on how quickly the new pieces gel and how much improvement they can make under Jokić’s leadership. The journey begins against the Thunder, as the Nuggets look to defend their title and once again prove they are a team to be feared
in the NBA.
