The Denver Nuggets lost their home opener to the Portland Trail Blazers in overtime 115-113. Denver struggled in the first half, dominated the third and failed to close the game in both the fourth and the extra quarter. Denver showcased how talented they could be and at the same time reminded us all how young this team really is.

Here’s what you need to know, from the good to the bad to the questionable:

The Good: Dikembe

For the first time in a long time, the Nuggets finally recognized some of their own success. Dikembe Mutombo had his No. 55 retired by the organization. Mutombo represents one of the best moments in Nuggets’ history. It was nice to see the team recognize Mutombo’s contributions as both a player and a great humanitarian. Denver pushing the Utah Jazz to seven games in the Western Conference semifinals in the 1993-94 is still one of the best moments this city has seen in sports.

The Bad: Their Youth

The Nuggets showed their age. Denver had countless opportunities to win this game and failed to do so. There were unnecessary turnovers, missed free throws and miscues on the defensive side of the ball down the stretch. The roster is young but veteran players must step up. Danilo Gallinari missed shots, Kenneth Faried failed to get it going and Wilson Chandler missed two critical free throws that would have iced the game. If the Nuggets are going to make a run at the postseason, this team needs to be able to close games like this one. Denver has to find a way to develop confidence in the clutch and protect their home court.

The Questionable: Where’s Nurk?

Why was Jusuf Nurkic not in the game down the stretch? For the second consecutive game, Nurkic started strong and did not see any critical action when it mattered most. Nurkic had 12 points and nine rebounds, but it was all early. Michael Malone said afterward that the rotation he used late was based on what Portland’s guards were doing. Denver needs to spend less time adjusting to what opponents do and more time imposing what they want to do. The Nuggets have two very skilled big men, and it’s time Malone starts using at least one of them consistently down the stretch.

Next up: Denver begins a five-game road trip in Toronto on Monday. The Nuggets beat the Raptors in Toronto last season.