Denver Nuggets: 3 takeaways from Game 1 win vs. Blazers

1. Paul Millsap’s play

Paul Millsap was incredibly productive in under 30 minutes of work in Game 1. The 19 points he had were the second-most out of any game this postseason, but it was the 7-of-12 shooting performance that really stood out. He also chipped in six rebounds, three assists and seven trips to the free throw line.

Millsap has always been an X-factor of sorts for the Nuggets since arriving in the summer of 2017. A multiple time All-Star with the most playoff experience on the roster, he’s proven capable of both leading the team in scoring and subsequently filling in the gaps where needed at both ends of the floor.

Denver goes as Jokic goes, with Murray and Harris behind him in the pecking order. There will likely be times, though, when the young talented trio will struggle to both create and knock down looks against playoff-caliber defenses.

It’s in these scenarios where Millsap’s veteran savvy will become of immense value to the Nuggets. He can hit shots all the way out beyond the arc while functioning as a go-to option from the free throw line down. His experience is exactly why they brought him in to push them over the top. If Game 1 is any indication, he’ll have plenty to contribute as this team moves deeper into the playoffs.