NBA Power Rankings: State of the Association

Mar 27, 2015; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) looks towards forward Kevin Love (0) against the Brooklyn Nets during the second half at Barclays Center. The Nets defeated the Cavaliers 106 - 98. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mar 27, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Ty Lawson (3) and guard Randy Foye (4) in the second quarter against the Utah Jazz at Pepsi Center. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /

73. The Denver Nuggets have been accused by more than one party of quitting on head coach Brian Shaw. Whether or not that’s true, the Nuggets have been undeniably more competitive since he was fired. After starting the season at 20-39 under Shaw, they’ve gone 8-7 without him. Coincidence or not, it’s nice to see Denver realizing how good it could be. Ty Lawson’s facilitating and Kenneth Faried’s rebounding have come to be expected, but the key development has been in two of the more forgotten players. Danilo Gallinari is turning it up as a scorer and Will Barton is performing at a high level. If nothing else, Denver’s future is bright.. (28-46). Previous: . Denver Nuggets. 24. team

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