Hoops Habit
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Denver Nuggets: Preventing the clock from striking midnight

By James Siegle

DENVER, CO - NOVEMBER 3: Denver Nuggets players celebrate during the game against the Utah Jazz on November 3, 2018 at the Pepsi Center in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Bart Young/NBAE via Getty Images)
DENVER, CO - NOVEMBER 3: Denver Nuggets players celebrate during the game against the Utah Jazz on November 3, 2018 at the Pepsi Center in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Bart Young/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Garrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images)
(Photo by Garrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Continue with bench production

A major difference this year involves the Nuggets’ bench play. Instead of losing advantages, the bench has positively turned the tide on several occasions.

Head coach Michael Malone tweaked his rotation in an effective manner. Jamal Murray often subs out first, replaced by Monte Morris. Murray re-enters the game as other starters sit, providing a scoring punch to the second unit. Murray is eventually replaced by Gary Harris, maintaining the presence of an attacking guard. Eventually the starting unit rejoins Harris on the floor.

Perhaps this changes when Isaiah Thomas returns, but for now the rotation is very effective. Murray sees more shots in time spent with the second unit. Morris’ pass-first style fits well in extended minutes with the starters.

Increased time with Murray isn’t the bench’s only reason for success. Members of the second unit have stepped up their production. Let’s take a look:

  • Trey Lyles averages 9.7 points and 5.3 rebounds per game
  • Mason Plumlee is posting 7.9 points, 4.8 boards and 1.2 steals per game
  • Monte Morris averages 7.6 points, 3.4 assists, 1.1 steals and just 0.6 turnovers a night
  • Juan Hernangomez is scoring 6.6 points per game while shooting 45.5 percent from 3
  • Malik Beasley is also chipping in 6.6 points a night

Through nine games, the bench has proven itself a serviceable asset for the Nuggets. It would be folly to say this hasn’t helped Denver to their great start. Props to Malone for smart changes to the rotation.

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