1. Key player development
Above all else, this aspect of the team has helped them get to the point they find themselves right now.
While most teams that are barely missing the playoffs year after year take crazy swings in trades or free agency, Denver focused on developing the players they had and bringing in the right pieces around them.
Seven of the top 10 players on the team in terms of minutes per game have never suited up for another team.
Jokic has come on strong since the team went in fully on his development a couple seasons ago, and he is now quietly in the MVP conversation despite being just 23 years old. He’s tied Michael Jordan on the list of all-time triple doubles with 28.
The team gave Jokic a mega contract and he is one of the best values because of the way he elevates the entire team around him.
Harris has dealt with injuries this year, but he’s still a key piece for this team with his ability to cut off the ball and shooting from 3-point range. Murray started the year slowly, but he is coming on as the year goes with his 36.8 percent mark from downtown.
As these players get older and more developed, the Nuggets are only going to get better, and this season is only the start of their coming out party to the NBA.