Denver Nuggets: Key battlegrounds in postseason matchup
By James Siegle
Battleground #2: Portland’s backcourt offense vs. the Denver Nuggets backcourt defense
Two years ago, the Nuggets struggled with Portland’s backcourt in the conference semifinals, as they held Damian Lillard to 39.6 percent shooting, but surrendered 26.4 points per contest to CJ McCollum (including 37 points in Game 7) and ultimately dropped the series to the Trail Blazers.
While Jamal Murray’s absence stings, the Nuggets backcourt won’t be a complete flop, as they’ve at least stockpiled gritty defenders. These stoppers will make Portland’s backcourt work for their points, potentially impacting the series in a major way.
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Facu Campazzo is a pesky defender whose specialty is irking opponents with a physical brand of basketball, and then proceeding to pick their pockets. Campazzo will likely start at point guard, and will spend the coming days hounding Lillard or McCollum, depending on schemes. He enters the series averaging 2.6 steals per game over the past seven contests.
Meanwhile, Austin Rivers has proven himself a solid two-way player who boasts size (6’4″) to go along with his effective scoring and tenacious defense. He’ll likely start alongside Campazzo in the backcourt, and is a strong defensive option against Portland’s guards.
Shaq Harrison was picked up midseason, and has been an exciting defender with ultra-quick hands and a gritty toughness. He probably won’t start, due to an underwhelming offensive game, but should see plenty of bench minutes guarding Portland’s backcourt.
PJ Dozier is perhaps the best defender of the bunch, and Denver will be thrilled if he’s able to return from injury in this series. His height (6’6″) at the guard slot will be helpful in contesting shots from Lillard and McCollum.