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NBA power rankings week 13: Halfway mark, OKC Thunder hold steady

By Tamberlyn Richardson

OKC Thunder Power Ranking W13 Chris Paul #3 of the Oklahoma City Thunder handles the ball during the game against the Toronto Raptors (Photo by Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images)
OKC Thunder Power Ranking W13 Chris Paul #3 of the Oklahoma City Thunder handles the ball during the game against the Toronto Raptors (Photo by Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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OKC Thunder, Power rankings week 12
OKC Thunder, Power rankings week 12 Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets handles the ball against the Dallas Mavericks (Photo by Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images) /

73. . 29-13. Previous: 4th. Denver Nuggets. 7. team

Denver Nuggets:

Offense: (111.2) 7th
Defense: (107.3) 11th
Net: (plus +3.9) 9th

Games Week 13 (2-1): Won vs. Hornets: 100-86, Warriors: 134-131, Lost vs. Pacers: 107-115
Games Week 14 (4 games): Mon at Wolves | Weds at Rockets | Fri at Pelicans | Sun vs. Rockets

With injuries to starters Paul Millsap, Gary Harris and Jamal Murray it’s resulted in some of the others on the Nuggets getting more playing time. Jerami Grant, Malik Beasley, and Michael Porter Jr. specifically are getting a chance to shine.

MPJ delivered in the comeback effort which resulted in the overtime victory over the Dubs with his first career double-double of 18 points and 10 rebounds. More importantly, he showcased skills that might find him earning additional minutes even when the injured starters return.

His stats through week 13 offer the evidence to continue playing him:

  • Hornets: 19 points (7-13), two 3-pointers (2-5), and eight rebounds in 28 minutes
  • Warriors: 18 points (6-10), three 3-pointers (3-3), and 10 rebounds in 29 minutes
  • Pacers:10 points (3-9/4 of 4 from line), eight rebounds, two steals in 23 minutes

Injuries haven’t caused the Nuggets major issues this season (yet) whereas last season they almost served as a benefit because Mike Malone was able to get everyone consistent playing time.

But, the injuries Denver is dealing with at the moment aren’t ideal since they feature two of the most vital contributors in terms of the effect. Paul Millsap is a two way player but he captains the defense and he is equal parts calming force and when the Nuggets need to be more aggressive. It’s not a coincidence the Nuggets aren’t functioning as well on that side of the hardwood without him.

Likewise, Jamal Murray is the tangible asset who often allows Jokic to demonstrate his best. Simply by virtue of Murray being able to hit shots, or make plays opponents have to cover both Jokic and Murray. Without him on the court, teams can key in on Jokic to a greater degree.

The week 12 power rankings touched on this aspect and now the Nuggets will seemingly need to navigate this stretch trying not to lose ground. Look for Mike Malone to reemphasize defensive priority as the Nuggets have fallen outside the top 10 — a category they once sat at the top of this season!

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