Grizzlies at Nuggets recap: Melo who?
by Andrew Feinstein on Feb 22, 2011 10:51 PM MST
in Denver Nuggets: Game Recaps
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PrintWhile blowing out the previously red-hot Memphis Grizzlies, the Nuggets proved why even without Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups, this team is loaded with talent. And more talent is on the way.
This was the most fun I've had at a Nuggets game all season. Yes, the Nuggets' recent thrilling victory over the Mavericks on an Arron Afflalo game-winner is hard to top, but even that game had the dark Melodrama cloud hanging over it as had every game this season. For the first time this season, the Nuggets played a game where all we as fans cared about was the game itself.
Making the game even more fun was seeing the newest Denver Nuggets - Danilo Gallinari, Wilson Chandler, Raymond Felton and Timofey Mozgov - introduced during the third quarter to a boisterous standing ovation. Here we were watching our roster-depleted Nuggets run all over the Grizzlies and just a few feet away were four substantial additions to the roster ready to join the squad.
Seeing the new Nuggets standing in the Pepsi Center corner, I had an epiphany: the Nuggets now have two solid starting fives! Given that only 24 games remain on the Nuggets schedule and meshing new players together can be a tall order, perhaps head coach George Karl should - no joke - play two separate starting fives at a time. The first starting five would be the squad that dominated the Grizzlies tonight from end-to-end: Nene at center, Kenyon Martin at power forward, J.R. Smith at small forward, Afflalo at shooting guard and Ty Lawson at point guard. Then the second starting five would be a squad that's already used to playing together from their days in New York: Mozgov at center, Al Harrington at power forward, Gallinari at small forward, Chandler at shooting guard and Felton at point guard. Oh, and just in case the Nuggets need more ammunition, we have Gary Forbes available at the swing positions and Chris Andersen at the power positions.
On my way out of Pepsi Center after game's end, I mentioned my two starting fives strategy to Scott Hastings who replied with raised eyebrows: "It's interesting. And we could just run people out of the building!" You bet we could.
Like the rest of the Pepsi Center crowd, I couldn't have been more proud of the effort our Nuggets gave tonight - both offensively and defensively. For the first time in a very long time, the Nuggets played stingy defense in the first half and held their opponent to just 42 first-half points. While Melo was here, we'd routinely give up 42 points in a single quarter. And it was that stingy defense that sparked repeated fast breaks and easy baskets. This is the way basketball is meant to be played, folks.
And when basketball is played the right way, everyone can find the basket. Harrington actually made more shots than he missed. J.R. regained that sweet shooting stroke that continues to tease many of us into thinking he could be an All-Star. The Birdman had a season-high 15 points. And even supermascot Rocky made his behind-the-back half-court shot after just a few tries!
Seeing the Nuggets tremendous effort tonight - against a worthy opponent mind you - showcased just how poisonous the Melodrama was to this franchise. Remember how Nate, Jeff and I all predicted that this team could go big places in our preseason previews IF Melo stayed? In hindsight, I suspect the Melodrama cost us at least five wins, if not more. This isn't to kick Melo in the rear on his way out of Denver, it's simply to re-state the obvious that despite Melo's alleged "professionalism", the theatrics surrounding his future were a colossal distraction for the players and coaches...and despite their best efforts, they couldn't overcome those distractions on a nightly basis.
With those distractions finally, and thankfully, in the past, the Nuggets can get serious about the business of basketball on the court. Tonight was a major first step in that direction, and I look forward to many more spirited efforts from a team that will be saying "Melo who?" for the remainder of the season.
The View From the Not-So-Cheap-Seats...
...I was able to catch much of Josh Kroenke and Masai Ujiri's pregame press conference while driving to Pepsi Center. Of all the things I heard, it was most interesting to hear Ujiri "promise" to "reward George Karl" for Karl's coaching effort to date. Looks like Coach Karl will be getting that much deserved extension soon. Also of note was Kroenke's confirmation of the rumor that Melo told him "New York or Chicago" when Kroenke and Melo got together in Baltimore in the offseason. Meaning, Kroenke knew all along that Melo had no interest in being in Denver long term and moved swiftly to trade his lone superstar.
...throughout the night, the US military was honored. And before you think this was a shameless way to appeal to the fans in a post-Melo world, I can assure you that this was scheduled weeks ago.
...before tipoff, Afflalo took the microphone at halfcourt and thanked the troops and then thanked the fans for their continued support of the Nuggets.
...before player introductions, the Nuggets "dance" squad put on a number to get the crowd riled up. It was unnecessary. Tonight's Pepsi Center crowd was a very sophisticated basketball crowd (more on that shortly) and was ready to give their full support to the remaining players.
...J.R.'s first quarter burst sure was fun to watch. When J.R. plays within himself and within the flow of the game, he can be phenomenal to watch.
...as noted above, this was perhaps the best defensive performance of the season for a first half.
...when the ex-Knicks/new Nuggets suddenly showed up in the third quarter, the Pepsi Center crowd gave them a standing ovation and erupted with cheers. You could tell the newcomers appreciated this Rocky Mountain homecoming and I, for one, hope they stay for the remainder of the season.
...midway through the fourth quarter, the remaining fans began a "Who-Needs-Mellllooooo" chant. Hilarious.
...there were noticeably less trophy girlfriends and wives at this game and more true basketball fans in attendance (male and female, I might add). I rarely get approached by fans who know who I am at games, and tonight I was approached by no less than seven different Denver Stiffs readers (all of whom are attending "The Carmelo Anthony Going Away Party" on Friday night) who had been given tickets from their friends, bosses, etc and were just thrilled to be there. If the Nuggets organization can show more respect for the game itself and drop the ticket prices to an affordable rate, this could be a positive trend: real basketball fans attending NBA games!
Non-Stiff(s) of the Night
-George Karl: Playing with a shorthanded lineup against one of the NBA's hottest teams, Coach Karl got the best possible effort out of his roster which produced one of the most well-balanced attacks of the season to date. Everyone who touched the floor produced in a positive fashion, with only The Birdman finishing with a negative +/-.
Stiff of the Night
-Lionel Hollins: The Grizzlies' head coach could only watch with his mouth agape as his well-rested Grizzlies got torched by the undermanned Nuggets. They were beaten so badly that in the fourth quarter, Hollins spent more time talking to my friend Chad who was sitting next to the visitors' bench than he did actually coaching.
Parting Shot
I might be a little too geeked up after watching this Nuggets victory tonight and I certainly don't want to get ahead of myself. But if it weren't for the Nuggets having just 24 games to go against many very tough opponents while incorporating new personnel simultaneously, I'd be incredibly bullish on what this new-look Nuggets team could do this season.
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"first" comments are awesome
check this out… a disgruntled Denver Nuggets Fan Burns a SIGNED Carmelo Anthony Jersey in frustration seems silly, theres a video here http://findticketprices.com/787/a-superstar-leaves
by Youro Guy Tickets on Feb 23, 2011 4:38 AM MST up reply actions
Nuggets squad frightens me without Melo
Thats right im very worried about this new squad that the nuggets have without Melo and Chauncey and oh ya lets not 4get about A Ceeeeeee, Shelly, and that awsome defender who never got to play Balkman….the reason these nugs frighten me is because I think they are an even BETTER team than they were with Melo and Chauncey, this team can actually play “team” basketball, there isnt two players who are responsible for 50% of the teams points, now this new Nuggets team can really swing the ball, possibly similar to the way great teams such as San Antonio do, and oh ya lets not forget these new Knicks players already have the experience of beating the spurs this year, Wilson Chandler SCORCHD the Spurs Defense from beyond the 3pt line earlier this season, the one player I would trade from this new Nuggets squad is Melvin Ely (even though I am really pleased with his efforts this season), I believe the nuggets could deffinately still use a 3rd reserve PG, they are solid at the 2 if any injuries happen at SG theyd still have 2 options in playing Wilson Chandler or Gary Forbes so that is awsome to have that versatility, They are very solid at the 3 or SF (Danillio (Italian Stallion), Wilson Chandler, JR SMITH, AAA, or even Big Al can play the 3) then you look at the Nuggies New Stable of Front Court players and Holy SH*! they are loaded (starting with shortest to tallest-Big Al, Kenyon (6’9)-Bird Man (6’10) Danillio (6’10) Melvin Ely (6’10) Nene (6’11) Timo"F"y Mozgof(7’1) and Koufus(7ft)……As it currently apears this is a very exciting young (maybe the youngest) playoff caliber team, we finally have the size we have been begging for since losing to L.A. 2yrs ago in game 6, actually all of the sudden we have 5 centers!!!!! the weakest link of all 5 is probably Ely who isnt a bad player (I really like the guy) but denver is now thin at PG if Ty(nomyte), or Ray Ray get injured, so thats really the only position the Nuggets need to adress, and all we need is a reserve (for that “just” in case scenerio)….by the way I was extremely thrilled today when I found out we gained Koufus another 7ft Center, he’s only 21 yrs old and I can remember him playing behind Memet Okur last season he’s not bad by any means, just one last thing I want to say…..The Nuggets front office did an AWSOME JOB and I am absoulutely thrilled about the Nuggets new squad as well as the Future of the Organization, we are now probably a deeper team than the Dallas (senior citizens) Mavericks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
by Nuggets Fan #1 on Feb 23, 2011 7:13 AM MST up reply actions
I think at the PG spot
karl could always just plug in JR. Smitty got a lot of PG time in late last season, and was training with CB in the off season.
by Joelsopinion on Feb 23, 2011 12:04 PM MST up reply actions
JR can also play PG at time
he has PG passing skill and instincts. It is crazy how good he can be when he plays within himself and doesn’t play out of control.
by gnarlybroncodude on Feb 23, 2011 1:18 PM MST up reply actions
jesus
that guys dropped the flaming jersey prettttttttttty close to the gas can
MOZGOD Enthusiast Member 71
"Don't chase the Money, chase the Dream"
"Wacky Wavey Arm Flayling Inflatable Tube Men" aka the Denver Nuggets
by NastyNessy71 on Feb 23, 2011 8:25 AM MST up reply actions
He had a really nice game
Played with good energy.
i just liked seeing him take contact
and still go up with the ball. he has been so weak lately. he gets bumped and the ball flies out. tonight, he was pleasantly very solid.
Jim Tracy is My Homeboy
Subway Sub of the game totally changed my opinion, He looked more like the bird the Nuggs re-signed two yrs ago
by Nuggets Fan #1 on Feb 23, 2011 7:18 AM MST up reply actions
Great game tonight,
I honestly was not expecting this, but damn, was it a fun and enjoyable game to watch. Great team effort by everyone tonight, and it definitely sends a positive message out to the public. Sure, it’s just one game, but it’s a heck of a way to start off this era.
Any word on more deals before the deadline?
by George Karl Marx on Feb 22, 2011 11:00 PM MST reply actions
Looks like none
Felton’s agent told Uriji not to dismantle the players coming in and Nene will be offered an extension. I think this is the team we will have for the stretch run.
It's Timofey MOZGOD time
Uriji for MVE
I Doubt they would have....
…had the Gang of 4 make such a public debut if there were trades for any of them in the works.
denver traded chauncey twice
trading those guys would be nothing compared to that.
pick up a calf every day pretty soon you will be picking up a cow
we're on a mission from god
Oh yeah, it could happen....
But I think they’d have low keyed it more if something was cooking
Always with the negetivity nohoops!
i leave for three months and you’re still throwing salt…although i get it. I’m still having trouble with the way CB has been passed around.
by Joelsopinion on Feb 23, 2011 12:07 PM MST up reply actions
throwing salt, thats a good one
trading chauncey did not bother me. its funny how people blame melo for it though. uriji apoligizing to billups was laughable at best. when he said ‘we just couldnt get this deal done without including chauncey’ i had to laugh. what he really meant was there were other deals we could get done but trading chauncey and 14mil contract for half that was pretty sweet. plus we have a really good guard in ty lawson. and soon enough we will need that big money for ty.
i dont kare if my wurds are spelt wrong.
by Over-and-back on Feb 23, 2011 12:26 PM MST up reply actions
Thank you!!!
That’s what I’ve been trying to say. They didn’t have to trade Chauncey but it was a convenient way to move Chauncey’s $14 million and have the criticism directed through Melo.
2011 Colorado Zombies-DeadWalking to the NL West crown
Todd and Troy: Because they ARE Rockies.
QPU #4, YHEG #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
and all that poor poor chauncey talk...
he’s anything but poor.
i dont kare if my wurds are spelt wrong.
by Over-and-back on Feb 23, 2011 12:32 PM MST up reply actions
I was mad that they traded Chauncey just because of his children
and he really is a Denver person(says the San Diegan) but Chauncey is not suffering financially that’s for sure.
2011 Colorado Zombies-DeadWalking to the NL West crown
Todd and Troy: Because they ARE Rockies.
QPU #4, YHEG #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
its not like his kids will never see him again.
seriously, people act like we killed chauncey and buried him out in a field. he is going to spend a few months in new york and then retire.
like i said before, trading him did the fans of denver and billups a huge favor. as a player gets older his skills decline, there is no shame in that. the shame is that the luke-warm fans will suddenly start hating chauncey when it happens. now nobody has to deal with that.
i dont kare if my wurds are spelt wrong.
by Over-and-back on Feb 23, 2011 12:37 PM MST up reply actions
And Dice twice . . .
He wouldn’t come back for a third
The New Era has begun!
I am sad by the departure of Chauncey, and in a way, I am also sad about the Melo Era coming to an end. But you gotta love the feeling of getting this whole thing over with and starting again!
Quitter's People United member #7
"Lawson is Crazy!" - Jason Kosmicki
Aussie Aces - Owner, Denver Stiffs Fantasy Basketball.
Relief
and reset expectations sure do help
It was hard to enjoy anything pryor to this game
Just like the article said, the dark cloud of the melo-drama really kept me from getting too engaged in any games this year. Let’s roll with the new.
by Joelsopinion on Feb 23, 2011 12:10 PM MST up reply actions
maybe chauncy will return next season
If Cp3 pulls the same crap with the hornets as melo did with us. there could be a cp3 to ny for billups + excess trade. And the hornets could buyout chauncy to come back here
yea i think that's the idea
they’re going to treat him as a $14 million expiring contract and trade him
hey we really gotta give Melo credit at least he told management that he probably wasnt going to re-sign and didnt want to play here anymore, without Melo informing us of his “Decission” we would be looking like crap in the future, instead we’ve been basically blessed with him informing us he wanted out seeing what the nugs did tonight with 8 players and to think that we still have the NY Knicks starting lineup (minus Amare), well Im really thankful as a fan to Carmelo for being upfront with Ownership and team Management, I ll admit I was bitter toward him at the beganing, but I really believe the Nuggs are the real winners in this trade and I think the Nuggets will not only make the playoffs but I believe they can be a real threat in the playoffs we still have KMarts Leadership and he also provides the abillity to shut down Dirk there arent too many players that can completely shut down Dirk but Kmart is one of them
by Nuggets Fan #1 on Feb 23, 2011 7:26 AM MST up reply actions
+1
I agree. Melo didn’t want to play for Denver, nothing the Nuggets could do about that. But he helped the Nuggets BIG TIME by bluffing the Knicks into thinking he would sign with New Jersey (meeting with Prokhorov over the All-Star weekend).
I’m excited about the Post-Melo Nuggets.
When you're right, no one remembers. When you're wrong, no one forgets
by CSprings_Tommy on Feb 23, 2011 9:35 AM MST up reply actions
++1
if Melo had pulled an LBJ public humiliation card, I’d be all kinds of pissed. It wasn’t a bad deal at all (at least for the future of the team). We moved 2 aging PG’s a seldom used HYPE man (Balkman) and a guy who’s wife would be a better fit (sorry Shelly). if the newbees are sticking around for a while this team will be seriously lethal in the near future…LIKE NEXT SEASON.
by Joelsopinion on Feb 23, 2011 12:16 PM MST up reply actions
The Nuggs did benefit
but he really helped himself which is what it was all about
he wasn’t gonna leave that $$$$, he forced the knicks to deal
Whats worse bad basketball or underachieving basketball?
aaa looking like the 2nd coming of walter davis
lawson looked great too. that should be the starting guard tandum for the next 5 years. smith at small forward was a good way to start the game. i was at the game and it was a positive vibe except a little on the low keyed side. i think it was just a coincidence that i left my trophy wife AND girlfriend at home and feinstein noticed less of them at the game. liked the passing, playmaking and running off turnovers. SO FAR SO GOOD.
pick up a calf every day pretty soon you will be picking up a cow
we're on a mission from god
Ty looks like the second coming of chris paul
it would be amazing to see JR, AAA, and TY at the all star game next year
I don't know about that, but those three have ungodly chemistry at times.
It might just be about to get let loose.
by Missing Lynx on Feb 22, 2011 11:18 PM MST up reply actions
Been saying it forever
Ty second coming of CP3. He’s certainly different in many ways, but in general he reminds me a lot of him – mostly his style/approach to the game. Damn he’s quick though! Probably the quickest in the NBA with the ball next to maybe Tony Paker.
Hyperboles kill.
Ty Lawson: Future elite NBA PG.
MOZ is GOD!
by GoldenNugget on Feb 23, 2011 12:19 AM MST up reply actions
nohoops i missed you
Totally agree about Ty + Afflalo. That is a STELLAR starting backcourt. Backed up by JR who showed he can play any position from 1-3 and Nene going forward and I think we still have an excellent core nucleus.
Swats.
by Colin Neilson on Feb 23, 2011 10:00 AM MST up reply actions
Unfortunatly
I think that Ty will be a back up once Ray Ray gets into Karl’s rotation. If for no other reason than his extra bulk and height.
by Joelsopinion on Feb 23, 2011 12:20 PM MST up reply actions
Did our new players do an interveiw?
If so anyone got a link?
Quitter's People United member #7
"Lawson is Crazy!" - Jason Kosmicki
Aussie Aces - Owner, Denver Stiffs Fantasy Basketball.
ESPN
Showed Gallo and he seemed really appreciative of the fans and happy to be here, same goes for Moz. Felton, as you know by now, already said he didn’t want anybody to be traded which is awesome. The only guy I’m a little worried about is Chandler. He already said how happy he was in N.Y. and, I don’t know, we’ll have to wait and see.
Hyperboles kill.
Ty Lawson: Future elite NBA PG.
MOZ is GOD!
by GoldenNugget on Feb 23, 2011 12:20 AM MST up reply actions
Thanks GN!
Quitter's People United member #7
"Lawson is Crazy!" - Jason Kosmicki
Aussie Aces - Owner, Denver Stiffs Fantasy Basketball.
When he was Knick, he wasn't going to say anything else.
They, the knicks, had a good team that was fun to watch.
The Knicks, ultimately, decided they didn’t need their services.
And he just joined a winning organization
which may help him buy in. If last night wasn’t enough, they will soon realize that the national media has greatly underestimated the Nugs.
During the sideline interview in the 3rd
Chandler was very polite and said he was happy to be here. I really like how he took is hat off and was very attentive to Mya, seems like a pro
Whats worse bad basketball or underachieving basketball?
That
And Mya was the frst chick in Denver he got to talk too… not a bad start in your new city.. Mya is vert attractive.
MOZGOD Enthusiast Member 71
"Don't chase the Money, chase the Dream"
"Wacky Wavey Arm Flayling Inflatable Tube Men" aka the Denver Nuggets
by NastyNessy71 on Feb 23, 2011 8:27 AM MST up reply actions
very*
MOZGOD Enthusiast Member 71
"Don't chase the Money, chase the Dream"
"Wacky Wavey Arm Flayling Inflatable Tube Men" aka the Denver Nuggets
by NastyNessy71 on Feb 23, 2011 8:28 AM MST up reply actions
Mozgov is quite the talker
Mya: Are you worried about playing at this high altitude in Denver?
Mozgov: …
Mozgov: I not worried
Mya: What were your first impressions of Denver?
Mozgov: um…
Mozgov: i donno…
I think his English is not so good.
2011 Colorado Zombies-DeadWalking to the NL West crown
Todd and Troy: Because they ARE Rockies.
QPU #4, YHEG #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
Felton was on NBA TV last night...
Naturally, said all the right things. he understands it’s a business. He’s excited to get going. It’s much easier and he’s much more comfortable being able to be traded with 3 teammates. He loves Karl naturally, and loves the way the Nuggs like to push tempo. Doesn’t know how the rotation will shake out, but he said he expects Ty to start for a week or two.
Most exciting thing he said was about the fans though. He said he could tell they really care about the team and he’s looking forward to earning their support (or something along those lines)
Quality stuff. He’s a real pro.
by 12-piece Nuggets on Feb 23, 2011 4:02 PM MST up reply actions
I am behind the "Two starting lineups" idea
big time.
That makes the Nuggets an immediate 2-headed monster to throw at teams each night.
A two headed beast – the opponent not knowing which 5 was going to start, the Nuggets determining by looking at chemistry, matchups, and players health (Kenyon needing to sit out for health reasons, etc.).
And surprising them at introductions. Hahaha, it would be an intimidation technique of sorts, and although a gimick, could be potentially lethal.
The Nuggets essentially have TWO 35 game winning squads on its roster. I mean, if singularly either starting five relied on a bench based mainly of Bird and Forbes, they could win about 25-40 games on their own. Mix them together and throw in the “two headed monster” concept, and you have a 40-55 win team.
We should easily make the playoffs assuming Karl remains the master of taking shambles of a team and playing Cinderella.
And I’m o.k. with that.
In any case…
We are going to be fast, we are going to be fun to watch, and we are going to be good.
THE CHICAGO BULLS DID THAT IN THE 1970'S
except it was the black starting 5 and the 5 white bench players. the starters were artis gilmore, scott may, mickey johnson, norm van lier and the immortal wilbur holland. the bench consisted of tom borewinkle, jack marin, the immortal tom krop, john laskowski and rick addleman.
pick up a calf every day pretty soon you will be picking up a cow
we're on a mission from god
Even if we start 5 and 5
Someone is gonna get left out, which is insane to think about.
Hyperboles kill.
Ty Lawson: Future elite NBA PG.
MOZ is GOD!
by GoldenNugget on Feb 23, 2011 12:22 AM MST up reply actions
Simple: Always play Ty, Felton, and Nene
for a substantial part of every game. Maybe Nene starts in place of Harrington (as Andrew proposed) and does his best Amar’e impersonation.
by Missing Lynx on Feb 23, 2011 12:29 AM MST up reply actions
Im 100% in agreement on the Two Starting Lineups idea, the Nuggets are now in my opinion(and this is only on paper) a better team than they were before the trade, I think the Nuggets are the real winners of the trade, and I quite frankly believe they struck gold in trading Melo, I ll always love Chauncey but we have to move on and Felton was in the race to be an all star this year in the Eastern Confrence with pg s like Rondo and Rose thats pretty awsome to even be mentioned on the ballat
by Nuggets Fan #1 on Feb 23, 2011 7:34 AM MST up reply actions
Didn't the Celtics
under Rick Pitino try this? I too was thinking about it during the game. Certainly would be a fun experiment.
Formerly KS and CS
by ThrowItDownBigManThrowItDown on Feb 23, 2011 8:22 AM MST up reply actions
They have to do it
the first several games. Denver has this one practice today to get things rolling but you can’tincorporate 4 guys into a system in 1 day can you? I think it will take a few practices before they can make a set lineup. But hey, the Ty/AAA/JR/MArtin?Nene and Felton/Gallo/Chandler/Big-Al/Mozgov lineups is basically two starting lineups and willrun through any teams depth in this league. Keeps everyone fresh which is much needed especially against the senior teams ie.Boston, SA, Dallas etc. This team, ladies and gentleman will make the playoffs and make some noise while they are at it.
MOZGOD Enthusiast Member 71
"Don't chase the Money, chase the Dream"
"Wacky Wavey Arm Flayling Inflatable Tube Men" aka the Denver Nuggets
by NastyNessy71 on Feb 23, 2011 8:31 AM MST up reply actions
Hate to be a killjoy but a reality check may be coming on Thursday…nevertheless I will be there hoping for the best!!
Gallinari is a Celtics killer
Partially functional, half of me is comfortable, the other half is close to the Cliff, like Mrs. Huxtable
by King Henry the 2nd on Feb 22, 2011 11:18 PM MST up reply actions
They will be usefull against eastern conference teams
they are more used to mixing it up with them.
For them, playing the Hawks is like us playing Utah or something.
Speaking of the Hawks, the Knicks and Hawks will now be the two “We are really good and have overpaid superstars but won’t make the finals” teams.
by Missing Lynx on Feb 22, 2011 11:23 PM MST up reply actions
I sadly agree.
I will legit bet $20 right now that Kevin Garnett makes someone in a Nuggets uniform cry by the time they get to the locker room at the end of the game.
Guarantee. Bet you it’s Gallinari.
by Missing Lynx on Feb 22, 2011 11:19 PM MST up reply actions
HA HA it’s possible! Guarantee it won’t be the new 7 footer though, he won’t understand a word KG is saying..
Um...
He would so cry if Garnett did this: Check at about 18 seconds in – he gets down on the floor and barks like a RABID DOG at Jerryd Bayless to intimidate him.
by Missing Lynx on Feb 22, 2011 11:32 PM MST up reply actions
LOL
If Mozgod stood up to KG that would make my day!
by Missing Lynx on Feb 22, 2011 11:44 PM MST up reply actions
Garnett will not do much
if Nene Starts at the 4. Nene will use his size and strength to shut him down. I can’t wait to see Nene play more PF
by gnarlybroncodude on Feb 23, 2011 1:23 PM MST up reply actions
Losing to the best team in the East doesn't mean we won't make the playoffs
especially with a team not used to playing together. But if we get destroyed then I would be worried, a close loss would not worry me.
It's Timofey MOZGOD time
Uriji for MVE
Maybe the Celtics will be looking ahead to the Lakers and
thinking of the chaos in Denver, we’ll catch them napping.
I'm calling it right now
We’ll beat the Celtics. I think we’ll still be riding the high and the new guys will want to prove themselves to the crowd.
Hyperboles kill.
Ty Lawson: Future elite NBA PG.
MOZ is GOD!
by GoldenNugget on Feb 23, 2011 12:24 AM MST up reply actions
What happened to doomsday GN??
Did you kill him?? Is this someone else?
Gotta love the haterz. Keep that hate a comin'
It's a miracle! He's cured!
He’s risen up like somebody in a wheelchair at a Christian revival meeting!
by LongWindedHank on Feb 23, 2011 12:39 AM MST up reply actions
or
John Lock on Lost =)
MOZGOD Enthusiast Member 71
"Don't chase the Money, chase the Dream"
"Wacky Wavey Arm Flayling Inflatable Tube Men" aka the Denver Nuggets
by NastyNessy71 on Feb 23, 2011 8:32 AM MST up reply actions
John Locke
Here is the key to your lock problems
Loch = Lake
Lake = Lake
John Locke
You know I <3 you
2011 Colorado Zombies-DeadWalking to the NL West crown
Todd and Troy: Because they ARE Rockies.
QPU #4, YHEG #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
Meaningful games with players who want to be here happened
I can’t tell you guys how jacked up I am for the Nuggets again.
A lot of fans are still sad and dismayed by having their misguided optimism for a Melo-led team destroyed. I’ll miss Chauncey, I really will, and no matter what I couldn’t bring myself to speak ill of him out of respect. The fact is, Ty is ready and he was being held back.
I’ll go with Tulo and Helton on this one. AI’m paraphrasing here but after the game when asked if they were sad Melo is gone, both shrugged it off and said why? If he didn’t want to be here, good riddance. I can’t agree more.
We'll Move the Earth for a Title
Roundball Mining Company
twitter.com/skitalicious
by runningdonut on Feb 23, 2011 12:46 AM MST up reply actions
I've heard Tulo say that a couple times
about MElo in the past months…..dude is right on the money w/ that logic
Whats worse bad basketball or underachieving basketball?
You guys had it twisted all along
I told always told you I’m the kind of dude that roots for the blue-collar, hard working, unselfish, defensive-minded group of nobodies any day over the spoiled superstars, even if we aren’t as good. Having a star doesn’t mean anything if they don’t want to be here and they’re ruining the team chemistry. After all we do play a team sport in basketball. I simply saw what was happening far earlier and accepted it far sooner than a lot of people probably did, so I went through the five stages of grief a lot quicker. Like when President Obama got elected and Sept. 11, I’ll always remember where I was the day Melo got traded. But I’ll always remember the feeling I had too. I wasn’t shocked, surprised, or anything of that degree. I just kind of looked up at the TV, took in the moment, and moved on. In the end life is just life. You can’t attach yourself to things like star players and stuff like that as much a part of your life as it may be. I was tired of Melo, this whole thing was just gruesome and not what basketball is about. I’m not a negative person, or a pessimist, or anything of that nature. I think those tags were dealt to people based on how they personally were handling the situation and at the time, it was a precarious set of circumstances and all I was doing was pointing out the obvious. I don’t see how one can be happy and excited with all what was going on, but if so then more power to them. I’m just a fan man, that’s all.
Hyperboles kill.
Ty Lawson: Future elite NBA PG.
MOZ is GOD!
by GoldenNugget on Feb 23, 2011 12:52 AM MST up reply actions
I am so with you regarding TEAM play
That’s part of why I’m so pumped about this new Nuggets squad.
As for the rest, I’m just chiming in to give you shit about your rep here. Hoping you’re not taking it all too seriously. Thrilled you’re thrilled. Me too! Take care.
by LongWindedHank on Feb 23, 2011 12:57 AM MST up reply actions
Trust me, I'm not taking anything too seriously - never do
I actually think it’s hilarious the whole persona I created here. But yeah, it’s just awesome being a fan right now. I love basketball and I truly love the Nuggets. Finally having this whole ordeal off our backs and coming out the other side with as many great assets as we did – I just can’t really describe how thrilled I am. It’s good to finally have wins and losses being the most important thing night in and night out as opposed to the Melo Drama. I’m a simple man, and I like to keep things that way. Just take it day by day. Next up is the Celtics, that’s all I’m thinking about. Serenity is awesome.
Hyperboles kill.
Ty Lawson: Future elite NBA PG.
MOZ is GOD!
by GoldenNugget on Feb 23, 2011 1:03 AM MST up reply actions
If nuggs are 1-1 two games after the trade
I’ll take it. They were underdogs to the Grizzles at home for shit sake, I’ll take any win we can get at this point
Whats worse bad basketball or underachieving basketball?
I kinda like your 2 starting fives idea, Andrew
Either way, this could be interesting. Chemistry is so important in hoops. Bill Simmons revealed the secret to basketball. “Its not about basketball”. This could be one of those situations.
Could this finally be JRs time to shine? If so. now is the time when all of the tough love could pay off. Its early, but great start.
2 starting 5's would be kind of awesome.
with 2 minutes left in the 1st, just send in 5 players at once. like hockey shifts lol. either way, whoever ends up on the bench is going to kill it. our bench could easily be the best in the league now.
Jim Tracy is My Homeboy
Misunderstood you, Andrew
Andrew, when I talked with you on the way out… I didn’t completely understand until now about the “Two Starting Fives”. I originally thought you meant… two starting fives, as position five / center… instead of A team / B team of 5 different individual players. I was wondering… why does Andrew think that we have a battle between Mozgov and Koufos for the starting five?…. He has better basketball acumen than that! Classic misunderstanding!
What I noticed about this game: Running the ball is back, all thanks to Ty (insert Road Runner’s beep-beep here). Karl was hardly seen sitting down all night, in front of the scorer’s bench and helping orchestrate his young team looking for leaders to replace Smooth. Was SuperFan Vicki’s sign of “Welcome New Nuggets” orchestrated, or what? Back to the game… Birdman’s finally playing for minutes (and his contract money), and I give Sandy Klough props on pointing this one out tonight in the post-game wrap. K-Mart’s early intensity and steal early in the game gave me flashes of 2004, yet by the end of the game… ice couldn’t help cover the pain that are limiting his minutes. Tony Allen has incredible ups. JR Smith matched Allen in points and rebounds, and finally looks relaxed when shooting. AAA was solid, running the floor and gained lots of hustle points. Solid game with a depleted roster. Kudos to the players and coaching staff. Memphis had the rusty, post-AllStar break blues… Nuggets looked refreshed and “reinvented”, to steal a line from Karl.
Ely No-Show
Ely didn’t play due to the possibility that he may replace AC, if logistics of the trade don’t work out as planned. So essentially the Nuggs beat a Gay-less Grizzlies squad with an 8 player rotation. Good thing that we didn’t have whistle happy refs!
Vicki's Sign
Nope. Not setup. Just worked out. Since we’re not 100% sure what might take place in the next few days, Vicki just brought the simple sign. The new guys were really nice. Easy to talk to and quick to say “thanks” for the geat Pepsi Center welcome they got.
“TWO starting 5’s” huh Andrew? Interesting. Imagine like a hockey line change!
Thanks!
Vicki's Husband
(Russ)
So I was reading the AP recap on Yahoo
This sentence caught my humor eye.
No Anthony meant more shots to go around for everyone, especially Smith, who’s never been bashful to pull up and take a jumper.
Actually he had decent things to say for once..check it
href=“http://www.nba.com/video/channels/nba_tv/2011/02/22/20110222_barkley_melo_trade.nba/” >
lol! how bout this Nuggets vs Knicks in the Finals with The young Nuggets finally bringing us that NBA Finals Trophee!!
by Nuggets Fan #1 on Feb 23, 2011 7:50 AM MST up reply actions
slow your roll butterbiscuit
I would love that, but NY ain’t gettin past the EAST teams ;)
MOZGOD Enthusiast Member 71
"Don't chase the Money, chase the Dream"
"Wacky Wavey Arm Flayling Inflatable Tube Men" aka the Denver Nuggets
by NastyNessy71 on Feb 23, 2011 8:33 AM MST up reply actions
slow your roll butterbiscuit?!
Oh you must add that to your sigline.
2011 Colorado Zombies-DeadWalking to the NL West crown
Todd and Troy: Because they ARE Rockies.
QPU #4, YHEG #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
everyone, welcome to the honeymoon phase
QUITTER'S PEOPLE UNITED # 3
Law of Ty: when one cannot see, will get blown by
"You need a strong farm system that prevents you from being desperate in the free-agent market"
Selective Obliviousness FTW
Masai Ujiri: Magnificent Bastard
by Kevin L on Feb 22, 2011 11:24 PM MST reply actions 1 recs
pretty much
and if JR goes all knuckleheady, the Stiffs will be calling for him to be benched. yada yada yada
2011 Colorado Zombies-DeadWalking to the NL West crown
Todd and Troy: Because they ARE Rockies.
QPU #4, YHEG #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
I don't disagree at all.
2011 Colorado Zombies-DeadWalking to the NL West crown
Todd and Troy: Because they ARE Rockies.
QPU #4, YHEG #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
Ironic
how the script has been flipped on pessimists & optimists
of course it’s the honeymoon phase, but a least the dark cloud isn’t over the Nuggs head anymore. If I learned anything from last night it was that the drama was KILLING this team
Whats worse bad basketball or underachieving basketball?
Small Sample Size my friend.
I’m not a pessimist. I’m a realist. Anyone who thinks this team is going to make a run for the playoffs is deluded.
2011 Colorado Zombies-DeadWalking to the NL West crown
Todd and Troy: Because they ARE Rockies.
QPU #4, YHEG #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
Pencil me in as a delusionist then
Nuggs team > individual player
Whats worse bad basketball or underachieving basketball?
Sigh is that what you took from my comment.
I was being sarcastic. I don’t think anyone is deluded on either side. I think you just want to feel better about the team and of course you have hope.
I never said Melo was better than the team. I do think one game against a team that had prepared itself for Melo and Chauncey and didn’t recover is not the best game to judge the remainder of the season.
I held out hope that when Bird and Kmart came back the Nuggets would play well together and we’d make a run for it. Sadly, that didn’t happen.
I’m just taking a wait and see approach now.
2011 Colorado Zombies-DeadWalking to the NL West crown
Todd and Troy: Because they ARE Rockies.
QPU #4, YHEG #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
+1
Hyperboles kill.
Ty Lawson: Future elite NBA PG.
MOZ is GOD!
by GoldenNugget on Feb 23, 2011 10:56 AM MST up reply actions
Anybody wonder what the team's chemistry is going to look like thursday,
When Kevin Garnett does THIS? to the Nuggets on Thursday?
On national TV?
I think this game will be very telling of this team’s potential chemistry, and could prove to be a “going to war” (as Garnett once put it) sort of bonding for the new and old players.
Or start an in locker room rivalry between them.
We got KMart to talk shit back at Garnett
I love when those two go at it.
Gotta love the haterz. Keep that hate a comin'
Garnett isn't a guy that is going to
scare any of our starters. Kmart and Nene are both players that can really limit him and maybe shut him down. Only Celtic I am worried about is Rondo
by gnarlybroncodude on Feb 23, 2011 1:27 PM MST up reply actions
MOZGOD
unite!
MOZGOD Enthusiast Member 71
"Don't chase the Money, chase the Dream"
"Wacky Wavey Arm Flayling Inflatable Tube Men" aka the Denver Nuggets
YES!
MOZGOD Enthusiast Member 71
"Don't chase the Money, chase the Dream"
"Wacky Wavey Arm Flayling Inflatable Tube Men" aka the Denver Nuggets
by NastyNessy71 on Feb 23, 2011 12:16 AM MST up reply actions
love that name
I hope it eventually evolves into “The Dude” as it was Lebowski’s drink of choice.
by Joelsopinion on Feb 23, 2011 12:45 PM MST up reply actions
knicks fan here
take care of our guys…they did good by us!
Yes, I am a Giants fan. Now that we got that out of the way....
IMPEACH DOLAN!!!!
I will not - lose! -Jay Z-
We will
Take care of Chauncey… goodluck with MD
MOZGOD Enthusiast Member 71
"Don't chase the Money, chase the Dream"
"Wacky Wavey Arm Flayling Inflatable Tube Men" aka the Denver Nuggets
by NastyNessy71 on Feb 22, 2011 11:56 PM MST up reply actions
with that stop and pop
i think we’ll make sure Chauney stays clean every night.
Yes, I am a Giants fan. Now that we got that out of the way....
IMPEACH DOLAN!!!!
I will not - lose! -Jay Z-
good!
MOZGOD Enthusiast Member 71
"Don't chase the Money, chase the Dream"
"Wacky Wavey Arm Flayling Inflatable Tube Men" aka the Denver Nuggets
by NastyNessy71 on Feb 23, 2011 12:02 AM MST up reply actions
He is not as good as he used to be with that stop and pop
But loved when he did it in the ‘08-’09 season.
I am excited to see the new Knuggets vs. Milwaukee tomorrow.
Gotta love the haterz. Keep that hate a comin'
are you guys on national TV thursday?
i’d love to see the new look nugs. just don’t go jumping off of mountains if our guys don’t click right away. it’s a new system, with new teammates, against a helluva opponent(Celts).
Yes, I am a Giants fan. Now that we got that out of the way....
IMPEACH DOLAN!!!!
I will not - lose! -Jay Z-
honestly
I think Denver will start with Ty, AAA,JR,Martin Nene and bring the Knicks in together. GK even said he plas on using some Knick plays for all of them to help the adjustment
MOZGOD Enthusiast Member 71
"Don't chase the Money, chase the Dream"
"Wacky Wavey Arm Flayling Inflatable Tube Men" aka the Denver Nuggets
by NastyNessy71 on Feb 23, 2011 12:25 AM MST up reply actions
that's cool
hey, maybe andrew is on to something about the 2 lineups. why mess with what works, on both coasts?
Yes, I am a Giants fan. Now that we got that out of the way....
IMPEACH DOLAN!!!!
I will not - lose! -Jay Z-
Andrew's idea shore but
GK said in a locker room press conference after the game he might try that with some Knicks plays.
MOZGOD Enthusiast Member 71
"Don't chase the Money, chase the Dream"
"Wacky Wavey Arm Flayling Inflatable Tube Men" aka the Denver Nuggets
by NastyNessy71 on Feb 23, 2011 8:35 AM MST up reply actions
Karl said he might run D'Antoni plays for the Knuggets
when they are playing.
Maya: "What are your first impressions of Denver?"
Mozgov: "I vil break you..."
44% from three
i can live with that! hehehe
Yes, I am a Giants fan. Now that we got that out of the way....
IMPEACH DOLAN!!!!
I will not - lose! -Jay Z-
Funny how we still feel ownership of our traded guys, eh?
Did you hear about the stupendous ovation your Knicks foursome got at the Can tonight when they were introduced in their street clothes?
by LongWindedHank on Feb 23, 2011 12:36 AM MST up reply actions
have not heard.
read. here, up top. haven’t checked any ESPN or NBATV tonight so i don’t know if they showed it with audio(they’d be smart too tho).
i read that Felton seems to be the angriest out of the 4, as he feels like we didn’t want him(which was totally untrue).
ah well, i guess they’re your guys now. question is, how many fans have welcomed them into there hearts yet, when they haven’t played a minute for you? judging from alot of posters here(looking squarely at you throwitdownbigmanthrowitdown) i’d say the jury may still be out in the minds of many in the mile high city.
Yes, I am a Giants fan. Now that we got that out of the way....
IMPEACH DOLAN!!!!
I will not - lose! -Jay Z-
Yeah, we're not quite at 100% support yet
We’re working on it! But seriously, TIDBMTID is one of the more sober Stiffs. I take him quite seriously. If he’s not on board, it’s probably for reasons of substantial objections. We’ll see who’s right in 20 or 25 games, eh?
“That’s why they lace ’em up…”
by LongWindedHank on Feb 23, 2011 12:45 AM MST up reply actions
iono
he seemed very anti knick to me…but i understand the situation may have warranted a little venom b/t the two fanbases. it’s all good, i’m just glad we all can get to enjoying basketball again.
Yes, I am a Giants fan. Now that we got that out of the way....
IMPEACH DOLAN!!!!
I will not - lose! -Jay Z-
Felton sounded great on NBATV interview tonight
Serious pro. He seemed 100% ready to rock and roll. If I were him, I’d be freaked out for sure. He raised his play like crazy this year, and the way he meshed with Stoudemire was stupendous. Frankly, I was surprised at the trade, but I don’t know exactly how it went down—if it happened due to the Knicks valuing Billups over him or for reasons of money or whatever.
Gotta fly. One more time; best of luck for the rest of the year.
by LongWindedHank on Feb 23, 2011 12:53 AM MST up reply actions
that's what we got from him too
professional, ready to play, and play hard, for 48 minutes if needed. i don’t think we valued billups over him, i just think your FO wanted more pieces, and we certainly weren’t giving up 4 of our starters for melo alone – no matter how much we wanted him. i believe Walsh fought hard to keep the Feltons and mozgovs and gallos out of it – until it became more and more evident that we didn’t have the leverage we thought we had, or maybe originally had. i know felton doesn’t care about any of that and feels slighted, but if he happens to log on to denverstiffs tonight, just know that we wanted you around, at least to fulfill your full obligation with us.
yeah man, same to you guys, although i’ll be a lurking around here more now since you guys are kind of the denver knicks now – hehehe. see ya thursday.
Yes, I am a Giants fan. Now that we got that out of the way....
IMPEACH DOLAN!!!!
I will not - lose! -Jay Z-
I for one
Am the most confident in Felton and his ability to help lead this team and continue his career year in Denver. I am welcoming all the new Knicks with open arms. I won’t lie, before the trade I wasn’t a fan of any of em except Wilson Chandler. Now that they are Nuggies…. man I love em all already =)
MOZGOD Enthusiast Member 71
"Don't chase the Money, chase the Dream"
"Wacky Wavey Arm Flayling Inflatable Tube Men" aka the Denver Nuggets
by NastyNessy71 on Feb 23, 2011 8:38 AM MST up reply actions
Does anyone know if we are going after a 3rd string backup PG
We suddenly have a glut of big men. Maybe switch AC with Ely and we call it a deal eh?
Gotta love the haterz. Keep that hate a comin'
We’ll probably just use JR as our 3rd PG if needed.
Meloooooo!!!
JR Swish From Way Down Town!!!
Stop Snitchin!!!
I may be wrong but I doubt it!!
beat me to it
by half a second
MOZGOD Enthusiast Member 71
"Don't chase the Money, chase the Dream"
"Wacky Wavey Arm Flayling Inflatable Tube Men" aka the Denver Nuggets
by NastyNessy71 on Feb 23, 2011 12:17 AM MST up reply actions
Idk
We always have JR!
MOZGOD Enthusiast Member 71
"Don't chase the Money, chase the Dream"
"Wacky Wavey Arm Flayling Inflatable Tube Men" aka the Denver Nuggets
by NastyNessy71 on Feb 23, 2011 12:17 AM MST up reply actions
Andrew:
I love your fanboy excitement and booterism. Always fun to read.
The self-promotion is a little weird sometimes. But I get it. You are new at being famous. Soon you will understand the perks of anonymity.
Quitters people united, member no. ∞
Infinite quit
Great great win. You could tell the players had an extra motivation tonight. Even if Rudy Gay didn’t play it was still an impressive win. I see us competing Thursday. Were gonna wanna go out prove to the everybody that were still a pretty good bball team without Melo.
Also can’t wait to watch Melo and Chauncey in NY 2mrow.
Meloooooo!!!
JR Swish From Way Down Town!!!
Stop Snitchin!!!
I may be wrong but I doubt it!!
i didn't know JR could switch to the 3
he seems smallish to me.
btw, do you guys think Karl will tinker with the lineup for thursday’s game, or keep it as was tonight and insert the newbies as needed?
Yes, I am a Giants fan. Now that we got that out of the way....
IMPEACH DOLAN!!!!
I will not - lose! -Jay Z-
Good question
But I think Gallo starts for sure.
As you say, JR at the 3 is something of a stretch.
Quitters people united, member no. ∞
Infinite quit
that's what i thought
what is he, 6’5, 6’6? i say Gallo cracks the lineup first.
Yes, I am a Giants fan. Now that we got that out of the way....
IMPEACH DOLAN!!!!
I will not - lose! -Jay Z-
Smith is a legit 6'6"
And you are right about Gallo cracking the lineup fist.
Another thing about GK, he likes to keep his rotations. He’s rather start someone who hasn’t played rather than promote a rotation player.
I'm quitting quitting. I'm ready to start winning.
JR's 6'7
Next to Melo he’s almost as tall as Melo, just not as beefy. he can play the 3 in a lineup with Ty, AAA, Martin and Nene. That’s a run and gun team and as long as he keeps in front of his guy on D and gets a hand up, he can defend at the 3. He’s fine playing the 3 in the NBA. Plus teams get used to himplaying the 3 then Gallo at 6’10 comes in and they are like “what the fuck dude?” haha so it’s a sweet 1-2 punch. Teams have to completely adjust ingame
MOZGOD Enthusiast Member 71
"Don't chase the Money, chase the Dream"
"Wacky Wavey Arm Flayling Inflatable Tube Men" aka the Denver Nuggets
by NastyNessy71 on Feb 23, 2011 8:42 AM MST up reply actions
Don't Forget the Salary Factor...
Not only are you talking two starting fives, (like it!) but you have that at a Very low cost…
Threw numbers together, and next year replacing Kmart with Koufas means our salary for those 10 are in the low 50’s… 30 mil less than we were at before the trade. No matter what happens with the new CBA, we should be in place to do some great stuff!
(I travel to Denver for one game a year, and got tickets for Thurs for Christmas… Perfect! Get to see the unveiling of the New Face nuggets…)
have fun brotha
MOZGOD Enthusiast Member 71
"Don't chase the Money, chase the Dream"
"Wacky Wavey Arm Flayling Inflatable Tube Men" aka the Denver Nuggets
by NastyNessy71 on Feb 23, 2011 12:26 AM MST up reply actions
And young too...
Average age of that ten is 24.8 years old… and only Al is over 30…
Yeah... tough to follow what I meant...
In my first post was considering what would happen after this season with the two “starting five’s”… With Kmart’s contract ending I replaced him with koufas so didn’t include him, and in Andrew’s original post he did not include anderson in it…
But you are correct:) (Still young any way you look at it.)
The problem with the depth and the two starting 5's is Karl
I love Karl and he is a great coach. But he is stubborn and insane about his use of a short bench. The 8-man rotation makes sense in the playoffs. But during the regular season?
There is still time to trade away for some talent.
Quitters people united, member no. ∞
Infinite quit
It would be a shame if he didn't utilize our depth
If he’s too stubborn to do that then he doesn’t need to come back. That’s our strenght now, so not making use of it is poor coaching, and we don’t need that here going forth.
Hyperboles kill.
Ty Lawson: Future elite NBA PG.
MOZ is GOD!
by GoldenNugget on Feb 23, 2011 12:34 AM MST up reply actions
Wow
What a game. What a day. What a year. I’m so glad we’re finally moving on, and I can’t even begin to tell you how pleased I am with our front office. Following that incredible trade they impressed me even more at the press conference and seemed as if they learned so much throughout this process and they could face anything now.
For the first time in a while I have to say, I’m really excited not only about now, but about the future and where this franchise is going. After Melo decided to bail this past summer I never thought that would be something I’d say. I can’t wait for the rest of the season and I hope the guys we got in the trade realize Denver has a winning culture and make it their home for years to come.
Hyperboles kill.
Ty Lawson: Future elite NBA PG.
MOZ is GOD!
Super strange coincidence
We posted these comments (see mine directly above) pretty much simultaneously. Just a coincidence—nothing woo woo—but still.
by LongWindedHank on Feb 23, 2011 12:33 AM MST up reply actions
Ohh.
I like your use of the long dash. You must be a pro.
\o
I'm quitting quitting. I'm ready to start winning.
yeah I saw that
at this hour that was actually pretty incredible :)
by Missing Lynx on Feb 23, 2011 12:35 AM MST up reply actions
I don't get it, what happened?
Hyperboles kill.
Ty Lawson: Future elite NBA PG.
MOZ is GOD!
by GoldenNugget on Feb 23, 2011 12:39 AM MST up reply actions
You two...
you posted the same thing at the same time.
he even references you by name.
it is creepy.
i hear twilight zone music.
I'm quitting quitting. I'm ready to start winning.
I posted my comment giving you shit at the very same moment
you posted your “wow” comment. Just another miracle on this day of miracles. ;-)
by LongWindedHank on Feb 23, 2011 12:42 AM MST up reply actions
Oh
Miracles…. ya. It’s been an awesome 24 hours I’ll say that. Probably the best day I’ve had in a really long time.
Hyperboles kill.
Ty Lawson: Future elite NBA PG.
MOZ is GOD!
by GoldenNugget on Feb 23, 2011 12:56 AM MST up reply actions
What's the very best thing about this trade?
I say it’s the fact that Golden Nugget seems to be smiling and optimistic, maybe even excited, about the Nuggets! Kroenke and Ujiri may have found the cure for chronic crankiness!
Hope it’s clear I’m just giving you shit. It’s pretty damn sweet to see everybody so thrilled and full of anticipation of a new era here. There’ll be plenty of ups and downs, but there’s just a shitload to root for again. We were a pretty poisoned bunch, eh?
Here’s hoping for the best for Melo and the Knicks, but let’s hope the door might have whacked his ass on the way out just a teensy weensy bit…
by LongWindedHank on Feb 23, 2011 12:32 AM MST reply actions
I BE GEEKED!
I was at first critical of the move thinking that Melo had NJ as one of his TEAMS and thinking we should play hardball to force NJ trade to start getting young assets in here. Now after finding out that NJ was never really a viable option and the Nuggets conspired with melo and Proko to get the best they could from NY, get Melo the extension and help NJ milk the Knicks I couldn’t be happier. I feel like we are the team the rest of the NBA fans should root for. 10 at least really solid players no superstars and if the Memphis game (and others without Melo) are any indication we are a very fast unselfish team that actually played defense and may just surprise some peeps!!
Interesting how you take the Mela out of the D....
and the D comes back to Denver!!
Can't help but think of the Orton and Cutler trade...
Melo being the Cutler…lack of heart, lack of leadership, Orton-all business, gets the job done. Lets hope that the defense and supporting cast is more Chicagoesche and not like the Broncos
It would have to be Gallo
But that analogy just doesn’t fit no matter how hard you wrap your head around it.
Good try, though.
I'm quitting quitting. I'm ready to start winning.
Sorry....Cutler and Melo are very similar...
Sub all the new Knicks and old Nuggets to Orton for analogy. I know its a stretch but I have a twisted, creative and problematic imagination at times!
Eh?
Cutler was a hothead who would yell at his own teammates and quit on his new coach for spurious reasons.
Melo is a happy guy who cleverly wormed his way out of town while getting a good deal for his old team and stayed positive through much of it.
I have way more respect for Melo than Cutler. And I’m not even that mad at Cutler any more, seeing how he was right about McD.
I'm quitting quitting. I'm ready to start winning.
Please Don't!
Compare the Nuggets to the Broncos…after the trade the Broncs’ went from decent to the laughingstock of the NFL. I sure hope the Nuggets don’t take that route!
Not me doing the comparing!
I’m on yer side! Terrible metaphor!
I'm quitting quitting. I'm ready to start winning.
read a Denver Post article today not sure from who
saying how Melo had just dogged it before the Knick games (even called in injured) before the Knick games so he could “audition”. The players were infuriated and if you watched closely and listened closely to comments they realize it is easier to play defense when you don’t have one guy not getting back and when you have all guys giving a concerted effort and rotating the right way
Very true
and they weren’t gonna come out and talk shit when he was here
Whats worse bad basketball or underachieving basketball?
Can't see how this is going to end well for Melo....
the NY fans will be pissed when they see that Melo is “not the messiah”. Don’t really believe that they will have the cap room after the CBA to sign a big name and don’t see how if Melo thinks Denver’s frontline was soft what he is going to think of his new team’s defensive and rebounding intensity. I don’t see how Melo and CBill are going to run Knicks offense….could get rough especially if Nuggets win and then the NY fans and media will turn on Melo….then what! Are you going to start producing music and movies? Better enjoy your celebrity status while you can. A note from NIN….Bow down to the one you serve (celebrity status lifestyle), you’re going to get what you deserve (fall from grace). Don’t mean to kick out the door but I appreciated the effort on defense and team orientation on offense and to me it just magnified everything that is right in the league as opposed to what is wrong in the league. Sorry SD!!
Some of the Knicks fans are smart
And are not expecting too much from Melo.
They somehow think Melo/ Amare are going to restructure their deals? Is that possible if they already signed max contracts?
I think this is another Isiah/Dolan move that will set the franchise back a bit.
Gotta love the haterz. Keep that hate a comin'
The Knicks fans I talked to...
they were similarly skeptical. They were glad to have Melo. But they knew better than to get too excited. Marbury was a hometown cat, they mentioned, and his return didn’t go over so well.
New Yorkers are a smart bunch. I like ’em.
I'm quitting quitting. I'm ready to start winning.
It might be.
Obviously, NY has some serious money and talent issues to deal with.
But there is already a buzz about getting CP3 or Derron Williams there. With one of those plus Melo and Amare, they are a legit squad. Maybe.
To win a championship, though, takes defense. And while I wish Melo well, I just don’t see a D’Antoni team playing D to win a championship.
I'm quitting quitting. I'm ready to start winning.
The Knicks will not have enough money to add a 3rd
superstar unless that 3rd superstar takes a HUGE pay cut. Which will not happen. Melo and Amare both signed the MAX extension with MAX money. I was going back and forth with Vic Lombardi yesterday on Twitter. He said cap space would not be a factor and used Miami as an example. Well that doesn’t really work because Dwade, Lebron and Bosh all took less money to make it work under the salary cap. Those 3 guys didn’t sign for max money so it worked. Lebron, Wade, Bosh are around $14mil a piece this year and $16 mil next year. NY has Melo around $17 mil this year & $18.5 mil next year, Amare is at $16.5 this year & $18.2 next year. Plus the rumors are NY wants to keep Chauncey next year and he is at $14mil.
The Next CBA will most likely have a harder cap so team will not be able to buy Championships, cough cough Lakers. The bottom Line is if another superstar wants to go to NY he will prob have to take around 11-12 mil a year which I don’t see happening when he has to look at his teammates making 18+ million a year.
by gnarlybroncodude on Feb 23, 2011 1:44 PM MST up reply actions
Salary Cap-NY
Amare and Melo have stated they will take lower salary to bring in a third after next year. Also, NY has a better salary cap situation than Miami already with Melo’s contract. Miami has more than $65 million committed to only five players after next year. NY only has $44 million and this is before they reduce their contracts.
The two starting lineups theory is interesting,
And I can honestly say I thought of that at some point during the game as well. The problem I came up with is this though: chemistry will suffer big time.
There will come times where the two ‘teams’ will need to interchange and play together, and if they don’t get enough PT together, that’ll easily be our weakest rotation and we’ll be vulnerable any time that happens.
IMO, the way isn’t to have the Nuggets and the Knicks, but to actually just have the Denver Nuggets. This’ll involve finding just the right lineup/rotation, so it may take a little longer, but I think it’ll be better in the long run. Only problem is GK might find some way to screw it up if you give him too much power over the rotations. cough 8-man rotation cough
"J.R. SMITH! WITH NO REGARD FOR COMMON SENSE!" - Future Kevin Harlan Quote
I just realized
for the first time this year I can look at the standings and get excited about a playoff hunt.
It's Timofey MOZGOD time
Uriji for MVE
I love Ty and Arron.
Lets build with character guys. I love the new breed of cats who play their asses off; Durant, Gordon, Westbrook, Love, etc. etc. They play hard. They care. And there is an air of humility about them (not many tats on those dudes either [I kid. I have no problem with tats if their heads are on straight]).
Interesting Karl quotes regarding Melo and the offense
Karl was asked an interesting question: “You’re losing a guy who, many nights, WAS your offense. Do you think you have enough offensive pieces left?”
Karl responded by asking: “So you think the way our offense was played necessarily is good basketball?”
The reporter suggested that sometimes Melo slowed down the offensive flow by holding the ball too much.
Karl went on to say: “In the NBA, you win (by) how the game (determines) what is your best chance at winning. Sometimes, how we played was not exactly how I really wanted to play.”
Read more: Nuggets’ Kroenke, Ujiri talk about Carmelo Anthony trade, losing Chauncey Billups – The Denver Post http://www.denverpost.com/nuggets/ci_17453073#ixzz1Elde2WRB
Read The Denver Post’s Terms of Use of its content: http://www.denverpost.com/termsofuse
Awesome quote.
Also points to the fact that George was up off his feet for more in this game than he has been in all of this season’s games combined. No defeated or indifferent shrugs and stares, knowing that he is at the mercy and indentured servitude of a superstar. He has players who might conceivably listen to coaching now. Good to see George up off his ass and working.
100% agreed
Hope Karl gets his head more into the game with the ballstopper gone.
by LongWindedHank on Feb 23, 2011 12:32 PM MST up reply actions
yeah, no more shooting a brick with 20 left on the shot clock
we are talkin about chauncey right?
i am really really curious to see how that all works out on the knicks. it is amare’s team and it should be interesting to see him ordering around melo and billups. might be worth the price of admission.
i dont kare if my wurds are spelt wrong.
by Over-and-back on Feb 23, 2011 12:34 PM MST up reply actions
Player's quotes on the offense:
“We don’t
expect one guy to take over Melo’s ability, he’s a great player,” guard Arron Afflalo said. “But at the same time it does create opportunity for myself, for J.R., for the new guys coming in to play a little freer and watch the ball move around just a little bit more.”
“It felt like there was a lot more flow on the court,” Lawson said. “It felt like it was effortless, like nobody really forced it.”
They can say what they want to try not to upset Melo
but everyone one of those players tonight played with more energy than they had all season. Those quotes show why along with this finally being over.
(also GK coached harder tonight)
It's Timofey MOZGOD time
Uriji for MVE
it was fun to see....
especially quick hands and feet in the passing lanes on D. Ty looked Tylawsome! I will be at the game on Thursday pretty good seats maybe near Feinstein….and will let you guys know my impressions of the new Nuggetbockers
another way to look at it
ty is no longer under chaunceys thumb and can be the starter. he should have been the starter all season.
birdman played hard because he knew if he didnt he’ll never do anything but ride the pine again. theres a new crew in town and they dont suck.
george, he’ll go back to head in hands pretty soon. don’t let one game against the scrubs of memphis make you think this is a turnaround.
i dont kare if my wurds are spelt wrong.
by Over-and-back on Feb 23, 2011 1:28 AM MST up reply actions
more like chauncey who?
lawson showed us that he shoulda been the man long ago.
i dont kare if my wurds are spelt wrong.
Artwork for Friday's party!
Andrew Feinstein | DenverStiffs.com | denverstiffs@gmail.com
by Andrew Feinstein on Feb 23, 2011 1:11 AM MST reply actions
would love to meet some of ya but not going to be able to make it...
maybe a Stiffy playoff party forthcoming as well?
looking forward to it
Founder of the only Joe Wolf fan club.
Nuggets ball boy, 1988
Once witnessed Dwayne Schintzius (at the preempting of Antonio McDyess) drop, "Wanna be a balla, shot calla!" in the Nugs locker room
by REAPtheThird on Feb 23, 2011 6:04 AM MST via mobile up reply actions
You clearly do not understand
sophisticated Italian fashion.
Don’t worry. I don’t either.
I'm quitting quitting. I'm ready to start winning.
The Nuggets are technically now tied for fifth place in the Western Conference!
It’s not such a bad time for the franchise, after all. Let’s make this the year we get to the finals.
WERE THE PHYSICALS PASED YET???
were they?
yes they were,
they wouldn’t have been at the can last night if they hadn’t.
by moondoggie12 on Feb 23, 2011 6:08 AM MST up reply actions
koufas
I didn’t realize how young he was! Its his birthday on Thursday, so show this Greek bastard some love. Vicki Ray, I’m counting on a killer sign! He turns 22 and was born in the states…
Two 7 footers to collect fouls and rebounds. Stiffs for sure, but damn we are big now!
Founder of the only Joe Wolf fan club.
Nuggets ball boy, 1988
Once witnessed Dwayne Schintzius (at the preempting of Antonio McDyess) drop, "Wanna be a balla, shot calla!" in the Nugs locker room
by REAPtheThird on Feb 23, 2011 5:42 AM MST via mobile reply actions
I don't know if Mosgov is a stiff
The dude got 24 and 14 one night.
No stiff can ever reach those numbers in a regular season game.
Williams did it in pre-season, but not regular season.
Gotta love the haterz. Keep that hate a comin'
by JR15 on Feb 23, 2011 8:31 AM MST via mobile up reply actions
i'm a little concerned the nuggets have atleast one productive wing player too much now
I believe chandler has to go
if he's not traded he'll be gone in FA for sure
i’d rather sign AAA and JR to reasonable deals than throw a bunch of money at chandler
and i like the 2 starting 5s. Phoenix did a similar thing last year and it works really well. Their bench had great chemistry and complemented the starters very well. I’m not sure I would do simply Nuggets starters/ Knicks bench though.
I think
Lawson/Felton
AAA/JR
Gallo/Chandler
Kmart/Harrington
Nene/Mozgov
Fill in Bird/Forbes/Ely for any injured guys.
I think its pretty hard to prepare for a team...
when you dont know what they are gonna do or even who is going to play. You know Memphis was gameplanning for Melo and chauncey but without either of them there, they didnt know what to do. Great win…but lets see how this goes before getting too excited
I doubt they gameplanned for Melo
Pretty obvious last week that Milwaukee was melo’s last game.
They just couldn’t game plan period.
Maya: "What are your first impressions of Denver?"
Mozgov: "I vil break you..."
This exactly.
2011 Colorado Zombies-DeadWalking to the NL West crown
Todd and Troy: Because they ARE Rockies.
QPU #4, YHEG #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
i must have missed something...did we get koufas in the trade as well?
i though it was felton mozgod, gallo and chandler but i keep hearing kpoufas mentioned on this thread. somebody please inform the uninformed (me).
Excited
Longtime lurker on stiffs, first time posting cause after watching the game on the web pass I was more excited than I’ve been in a long time about the nugs. Like many of you I’ve become as ambivilant as the team seems to be many nights, wondering why I paid this money for watching games on my pc and staying up ungodly hour in japan to see a team that doesn’t excite me at all. I’m happy to see guys working hard, and though honeymoon phase may be bliss, I have faith in the pro coach k to put things together and give a product I’m excite to watch at sill hours. Go nugs, and Andrew and the rest keep up the work next time I’m back home I hope to go to a game and grill u on your thoughts!
by JapaNugget on Feb 23, 2011 8:03 AM MST via mobile reply actions
That was the entire team playing an efffffuuuuuuuuuu game for Melo
The entire team was as focused as I’ve ever seen them. Even playoffs. Very clear that they were sending a giant eeeeeeeffffffuuuuuuuu to Melo for not wanting to play with them and for making the season so miserable. J.R. made that nearly halfcourt shot, and he didn’t even smile afterward. Not once. No jumping around, no hands in the air. Cold, focused, determination. Karl was up and active the whole game – the announcers even talked about how much more active than usual he was. And it was even more significant because none of the new guys were here. Most enjoyable game of the whole season. Finally, a team we can root for again.
Don’t know that they can keep up this level of intensity, but for one game it was great. EEEEFFFFUUUUUUU!
I also thought of the two starting fives during the game. Fun concept. I think the celtics under patino were the last team to try it.
Formerly KS and CS
by ThrowItDownBigManThrowItDown on Feb 23, 2011 8:29 AM MST reply actions
Noticed the same thing after the halfcourt shot
A cold, focused, determined JR is a scary thought…for the rest of the NBA. I pray it continues
"You cocky cock! You'll pay for your crimes against humanity!"
"He's like a man with a fork in a world of soup."
To address your points
1) This team had to focus because Chauncey wasn’t there to coach and run the floor(I’m being serious).
2) See 1 for why Karl was up and active more than ever.
3) These are professional basketball players and these guys were playing hard because they didn’t want to lose a game.
4) As Kevin L pointed out in the game thread, they had to stop relying on Melo. There is a perception that Melo was a ball stopper, which I have yet to understand. He’s a scoring machine, they got the ball to Melo because he was the BEST scorer most of the time.
I’m happy the team won. But I’m not ready to crown them as anything yet.
2011 Colorado Zombies-DeadWalking to the NL West crown
Todd and Troy: Because they ARE Rockies.
QPU #4, YHEG #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
Hey
I’m not crowning them either. But that was fun. Doing it for one game is one thing. We could just as easily see a blowout loss with the Celtics.
Formerly KS and CS
by ThrowItDownBigManThrowItDown on Feb 23, 2011 10:23 AM MST up reply actions
it was a big
efffffuuuuu I loved every minute of it
Whats worse bad basketball or underachieving basketball?
I disagree it was an intentional F/U moment.
I think once Melo and Chauncey were gone they just moved on and started playing.
2011 Colorado Zombies-DeadWalking to the NL West crown
Todd and Troy: Because they ARE Rockies.
QPU #4, YHEG #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
Definitely an eeefffuuu
The players were pissed at Melo, they even had quotes about it from AC during the game.
Formerly KS and CS
by ThrowItDownBigManThrowItDown on Feb 23, 2011 11:07 AM MST up reply actions
AC?
Wasn’t AC one of the players traded? How could he have been at the game? I’m confused.
2011 Colorado Zombies-DeadWalking to the NL West crown
Todd and Troy: Because they ARE Rockies.
QPU #4, YHEG #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
Scott was talking about
conversations w/ AC towards the end of the fiasco, the team was upset w/ MElo
Whats worse bad basketball or underachieving basketball?
I didn't see that..
2011 Colorado Zombies-DeadWalking to the NL West crown
Todd and Troy: Because they ARE Rockies.
QPU #4, YHEG #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
Were you watching altitude?
Hastings was talking about it on and off through the game.
Whats worse bad basketball or underachieving basketball?
I wasn't really listening to the broadcast
closely. I was doing other things while the game was on.
2011 Colorado Zombies-DeadWalking to the NL West crown
Todd and Troy: Because they ARE Rockies.
QPU #4, YHEG #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
That's where they were talking about it
I thought of you as soon as I heard it
me: “I told you SD”
wife: “who are you talking to?”
me: “uh……nothing”
Whats worse bad basketball or underachieving basketball?
Heh...that's funny
Well, I’m sure AC is pissed. He was traded!
2011 Colorado Zombies-DeadWalking to the NL West crown
Todd and Troy: Because they ARE Rockies.
QPU #4, YHEG #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
No crowning here
ha ha…just nice to see some team ball thats all
when 53% of the teams in the leauge make the playoffs it’s easy for me to see this team get in
Whats worse bad basketball or underachieving basketball?
Melo Was The Ultimate Ball Stopper
As even Karl said, the Nuggets offense was not very pretty this season, with players standing and Melo dominating the ball. No doubt, Melo is a great scorer, but the team was generally tough to watch. Gotta love the way they played last night, with passing, hustle, unselfishness and, yes, fun. I really enjoyed the style of play last night, and I think most of the crowd did too.
by ACEIII on Feb 23, 2011 12:02 PM MST via mobile up reply actions
Awesome
I picked up tickets right behind the Griz bench for dirt cheap last night…great to finally meet you, Andrew. Amazing how the end of the Melodrama has removed a dark cloud from over the Nuggets. The camraderie among the Denver players seemed to be there for the first time all year; you could just tell that the guys were playing together and having fun.
And Hasheem Thabeet is a f-ing giant…it’s too bad he can’t play basketball.
by MikeyLikesNuggets on Feb 23, 2011 8:50 AM MST reply actions
I posted on my Twitter last night about having 2 Starting lineups
I personally Love the Idea. It gives all the players some time to develop a chemistry. I think that is how GK should handle it at first and during practice he should mix up the lineups so players get used to each other. We really do have 2 starting groups and then some quality bench players behind that. This team may not have the superstar anymore but they are deeper then they have been probably ever.
I personally think we will make the playoffs and I hope by then all these guys have clicked. At the start of the playoff I would like the starting 5 to look something like this.
1 Lawson
2.AAA
3.JR, Gallo or Chandler
4. Nene
5. Mosgov
I really want to see Nene play a majority of the time at the 4 going forward. He has a unique size and speed/quickness that few PF can handle in the league. I expect GK to use the 2 lineup strategy for awhile but by the time the playoffs come around I could see some changes in the lineup.
by gnarlybroncodude on Feb 23, 2011 1:52 PM MST reply actions
After listening to this I dislike Carmelo even more and feel really bad for CBill
http://www.nba.com/video/channels/nba_tv/2011/02/23/20110223_nyk_presser_melo_billups.nba/index.html
J.R. Smith... WE JUST SAW MAN FLY! RIDE EM COWBOY!
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