The Denver Nuggets were embarrassed once again on their home court last night, and after the game, head coach Michael Malone had an interesting choice of words about his players.
“If guys want to go out there and go through the motions,” Malone said, “I have to find a bunch of guys – even if they are young – that will go out there and at least play.”
At first glance, it seems like your typical “angry coach” quote, but then he adds “even if they are young.” This can be taken in a few different ways, but it’s clear that he’s calling out, speaking to, his veterans.
Coming into the year, everybody knew the Nuggets were going to struggle at times — that’s what young teams do — but no one expected them to look this lost and disorganized, especially when there were some key veterans in place.
The team is currently stuck between a rock and a hard place, being forced to juggle minutes on a roster that has been both riddled with injuries and overcrowded, resulting in little to no consistency.
At this point, the Nuggets are bent but not broken; however, the veterans will really need to pick up their play and stabilize this team, something they were expected to be doing from the get-go.
The quote seems like it’s a cry for help from Malone, attempting in some way, shape or form to rally the troops.
Things aren’t going to get easier for this team moving forward, as they’ll be on the road for the next week or so. When they return, they’ll be greeted by a Portland Trail Blazers team that has handled them so far this season.
This team needs to find themselves, and the vets need to help lead the charge. Otherwise, it may be time for some major changes.
