DENVER — Michael Malone adopted a realistic view of his team’s impressive nine-game winning streak.
“It beats the alternative,” remarked the Denver Nuggets coach, highlighting the significance of their current success.
As the franchise’s winningest coach, Malone is on the verge of achieving a noteworthy career milestone.
Despite guiding Nikola Jokic and his teams to considerable achievements, including an NBA title in 2023, Malone has yet to secure a 10-game winning streak with the Nuggets.
This feat could be within grasp, with the challenge of facing LeBron James, Luka Doncic, and the Los Angeles Lakers looming on Saturday night.
Notably, the Nuggets have maintained a home winning streak against the Lakers since April 10, 2022.
“It’s crucial to accumulate wins no matter the performance; it’s our priority,” Malone expressed following a 129-115 victory over the Charlotte Hornets on Thursday.
“Even if our play wasn’t stellar, we still secured a win. Yet, there remains a lot that needs improvement.”
If the Nuggets achieve victory on Saturday, it would mark only the seventh 10-game winning streak in the franchise’s history.
The record stands at 15, which was accomplished by the 2012-13 Nuggets under coach George Karl.
This current streak propelled forward after overcoming a three-game losing spell, kicking off with a narrow 137-134 win against the 76ers in Philadelphia.
Since then, they’ve continued their winning momentum into and beyond the All-Star break, with a tricky win against a Hornets team missing LaMelo Ball.
Interestingly, none of the nine consecutive victories have been against teams currently ranked within the top six of their conference.
“We’ve had a bit of luck on our side with the schedule,” said Jokic, a three-time NBA MVP enjoying one of his best seasons, averaging 29.7 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists.
They have navigated through injuries successfully, recently welcoming back Russell Westbrook (hamstring), Michael Porter Jr. (hamstring), and Aaron Gordon (calf) for the match against the Hornets.
How often do they focus on their winning streak?
“Not at all,” Gordon mentioned. “Our conversations center on playing quality basketball and smart decision-making.
“We aim to be at our best during April, May, and June, so this is the moment to elevate our performance.”
Jamal Murray echoed this sentiment, noting his hot shooting streak, scoring 55 points in a prior win against Portland, followed by 34 against the Hornets.
“It’s really more about being prepared and determined to win rather than just strategy,” said Murray, whose team ranks second in the Western Conference, trailing Oklahoma City by eight games.
“I appreciate our team’s motivation to strive for that top seed.”
Jokic recently tried a career-high 14 three-pointers in the game versus Charlotte, with the Nuggets attempting a total of 43 shots from beyond the arc.
The Hornets seemed to encourage Jokic and his team to attempt outside shots, resulting in him hitting six threes, while his teammates contributed an additional 13.
“I might play defense against myself in that situation as well,” Jokic mused.
He’s currently achieving a career-best 44.9% from three-point territory, but when asked what changes he made, he remained tight-lipped.
“I’m not sharing that with you guys,” he responded playfully.
After the Hornets game, the conversation shifted to the color of Jokic’s suit, which was a unique combination that had gradients of dark apricot, plum, and burgundy, before ultimately returning to the impressive winning streak of the Nuggets.
Regarding his suit color, he simply shrugged but emphasized the value of finishing strong.
“It’s always vital to perform well at this time of the year because it sets the stage for what’s to come,” Jokic remarked.
“We look forward to improving even further.”
