Denver Nuggets: Breaking down potential big-man lineups

Defense

Most fans are especially nervous here, as defensive foot-speed is a concern. Significant problems lurk if Denver plays the Houston Rockets, a team that enjoys isolating bigs on the switch. No matter how you slice it, Denver will miss Gary Harris and Torrey Craig on the stopping end, especially against high-octane guards.

With that said, the Nuggets have sturdy stoppers remaining, and length is suddenly an advantage defensively. Grant proved himself an excellent on-ball defender this season, and he’s the primary option against the likes of LeBron James, Kawhi Leonard and Luka Doncic.

Millsap is Denver’s best help-side defender, leading the squad with a 102.2 defensive rating. Barton is a large, above-average stopper at the guard spot, which is where he should primarily play.

Meanwhile, these big lineups featuring Grant and Bol ooze shot-altering potential. With Grant and Bol playing minutes on the wing, expect opposing shooters and slashers alike to struggle lofting shots over the collection of long arms.