After Denver trade, difference in Emmanuel Mudiay is confidence

The Knicks' Emmanuel Mudiay reacts after a three-point basket against the Bucks at Madison Square Garden on Dec. 1. Photo Credit: Jim McIsaacDENVER — For the Denver Nuggets to reach the lofty place they hold in the standings a huge part has been the work of coach Mike Malone and his staff developing the young players on the roster.

But one player that they couldn’t get to reach his potential was Emmanuel Mudiay, ending with the trade to the Knicks at the February trade deadline last season. Both Malone and Knicks coach David Fizdale agree the difference is confidence.

“Here’s a young man that Fiz has put the ball in his hands,” Malone said. “He had a great month of December — I think 19…