Denver Nuggets: Nikola Jokic, Michael Malone and the transfer of power

As Nikola Jokic and Michael Malone join the All-Star fray, the Denver Nuggets have officially transitioned out of the Carmelo Anthony era and into better days.

It’s out-with-the-old, in-with-the-new time for the Denver Nuggets. But not in every regard.

The Nuggets chose to stand pat at the 2019 NBA Trade Deadline, a move highlighting supreme confidence in their core. However, the squad’s first All-Star appearance in almost 10 years symbolizes a power transfer in the Rocky Mountains.

Firmly locked into place is franchise superstar Nikola Jokic, who will make his first career All-Star appearance in 2019. Joining him is Nuggets head coach Michael Malone, also a first-timer. The duo has pushed Denver to a stunning 37-17 record. Now they are the first Nuggets involved in the All-Star game since Carmelo Anthony in 2011.

Jokic is the biggest-name player since Melo, and Malone is certainly the best coach since George Karl. The two couldn’t be more different from their counterparts, however. The pair’s success is certainly turning heads across the league, but it’s the calm, inspiring manner in which they win that spells optimism for the future.

Low-key almost to a fault, Jokic is all about his teammates. He is a talented scorer, but would legitimately prefer passing and gifting teammates the glory. It’s a bizarre, effective combination, especially at the center position.

In his Denver days, Anthony could score from anywhere, converting on jumpers and interior buckets alike. The dude is the third-highest scorer in franchise history. He leads the organization in two other categories, however: frustrated frowns, and coaching headaches inflicted.

Meanwhile, Malone loves his players, and the guys appreciate him back. He’s famous for taking offseason trips to see internationally born players like Nikola Jokic and Juan Hernangomez in their home countries. Malone preaches toughness and defense, but is always good for a laugh with the players and media.

“Furious George” Karl was a different coach, known for winning seasons and a fiery personality. He got along with Carmelo like a cactus interfaces with bare leg flesh. Karl led the Nuggets to multiple playoff appearances, but could never establish consistent chemistry in Denver.

The Nuggets have turned over since 2011. And they are so much better for it.

Despite playing in a powerhouse Western Conference, the Nuggets are the top the pack at this year’s trade deadline They can beat you any given night, using multiple scoring combinations. Led by the Joker, Denver is not afraid to share the ball, keeping defenses off balance. Because of Jokic’s passing prowess, there’s so much Malone can do on the attacking end.

As they say, teamwork makes the dream work.

The era of selfishness and curmudgeonry has changed to the golden age of teamwork, energy and…joy. The savings bond of several years has matured into a sharp, talented core this 2018-19 season.

The Nuggets currently hold the second spot in the fierce Western Conference. Golden State’s future roster uncertainty is motivation to stay the course. What’s more, LeBron James‘ Los Angeles Lakers whiffed comically in their attempt to land Anthony Davis, derailing the squad from within.

The conference may open wide next year, so stay tuned on that front.

Meanwhile, the Nuggets has years of beautifully crafted basketball ahead. It’s the beginning to a golden era in the Mile High.