Denver’s Defense Ready for Playoff Run?
The Nuggets entered Monday night’s home game against Dallas ranked first in the NBA in scoring (averaging 103.7 points) but only 28th in points allowed (101.3). In theory, Denver’s defense has improved with the acquisitions.
“I like playing both sides of the court. It’s better for the team,” said the 6-foot-8, 225-pound (Wilson) Chandler. “I just try to play hard. The more stops we get, the easier it is to run. Defense creates more opportunities on offense. … I like playing defense.”
Chandler cherishes the defensive matchups. And he has something to prove too. Last year, he played hurt during the first round of the playoffs against Oklahoma City and didn’t have his best series. But he is refreshed after sitting out the past month since returning from China. Sure, he has spent only a few hours actually getting coached by the Nuggets this season. But he will happily play defense, regardless.
“The thing we’re most excited about is we think he’s a premier defender in the league,” Nuggets coach George Karl said. “Right now our defense needs an extra one-on-one guy. He’s a runner and an athlete, can play multiple positions. I thought he was more engaged than he was last year. Today it seems like he’s happy to be here, happy to get this past him and move into playing.”
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