The Denver Nuggets had a solid 2021-22 NBA season given the circumstances that they were facing. Back-to-back MVP Nikola Jokic continued doing his thing, impacting both ends of the court. However, his supporting cast was not as strong.
Denver was without Jamal Murray for the entire season, as he tore his ACL last April. In addition, Michael Porter Jr. missed all but nine games as he dealt with back issues that eventually required him to undergo another procedure.
The Nuggets still made the postseason, and some rumors were swirling that both players were going to try and get back on the court for the playoffs, but that didn’t come to fruition. They remained sidelined, and the team was defeated rather easily by the Golden State Warriors.
Without Murray and Porter, Denver was nothing more than first-round fodder, as they didn’t have a chance to truly contend.
LATEST NBA NEWS AND RUMORS: Denver Nuggets’ Jamal Murray, Michael Porter Jr. ‘Look Great’ In Recovery
They are hoping that changes next season as both players are expected back in the lineup. However, they will need some time to get up to speed. According to head coach Michael Malone, both Murray and Porter will be on minute restrictions at the beginning of the season.
That isn’t surprising as they both return from major injuries. The beginning of the season will be a good time for them to knock off the rust and get back into the swing of things. Keeping them healthy for the long-term is also the goal, as the Nuggets need them on the court more in April than in October.
LATEST NBA NEWS AND RUMORS: Denver Nuggets’ Jamal Murray, Michael Porter Jr. ‘Look Great’ In Recovery
In addition to them coming back to the lineup, the Nuggets upgraded their depth on the wing. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope was acquired from the Washington Wizards in a trade, while Bruce Brown was signed away from the Brooklyn Nets in free agency. A first-round pick was used on Christian Bruan out of Kansas as well.
