The Nuggets might not be the NBA’s most talented team. But they could well be the league’s most defiant bunch, bristling at any suggestion Denver is a fly-over city unworthy of serious championship consideration, while spitting in the face of adversity, no matter how wickedly the injury bug bites.
This never-say-die defiance is born of a rock-solid relationship between center Nikola Jokic and coach Michael Malone that’s a blend of New York City street smarts and stubborn Serbian loyalty. It’s a six-year-old bromance growing stronger with every victory.
“The guy gave me everything,” said Jokic, the MVP candidate nobody saw coming, except maybe Malone.