The Denver Nuggets, once considered a dominant force in the NBA, have found themselves in the midst of an unexpected slump during the 2024-2025 season. Despite boasting the reigning MVP in Nikola Jokić and a deep roster that helped them secure an NBA championship last year, the Nuggets have struggled to find their rhythm this season, leaving fans and analysts alike wondering what went wrong.
At first glance, the team seems to have everything it needs to continue their championship run. Jokić remains a transcendent talent, and key players like Jamal Murray, Michael Porter Jr., and Aaron Gordon are still in the mix. However, the Nuggets’ struggles go deeper than just poor performance on the court.
Injuries and Fatigue
One of the primary factors contributing to Denver’s struggles this season is the aftermath of their intense postseason run in 2024. After clinching their first-ever NBA championship, the Nuggets faced a shorter offseason than many of their competitors, leaving several players with lingering injuries and fatigue. While Jokić has played at his usual high level, players like Murray and Porter Jr. have shown signs of wear and tear, which has affected their consistency and effectiveness.
Defensive Woes
Another glaring issue has been the Nuggets’ defense. Last season, Denver had one of the league’s more solid defensive units, but this year, they have struggled to contain opponents, particularly in the paint and during fast breaks. While Jokić’s unique passing and scoring abilities have kept the team competitive offensively, their defense has often been the Achilles’ heel, leading to high-scoring games and a loss of momentum in crucial matchups.
Coaching Adjustments
Head coach Michael Malone, who has led the Nuggets to the top, has also faced some scrutiny this season. While his strategies have worked in the past, some feel his adjustments have been slow and less effective in addressing the team’s weaknesses. There have been questions surrounding rotations, particularly with bench players who haven’t stepped up to fill the void when the starters rest. With a deeper bench than ever, the Nuggets have yet to find the right chemistry to bring consistent production from their second unit.
Tensions and Chemistry Issues
Perhaps most shockingly, there have been whispers of internal tension within the team. Sources close to the Nuggets have hinted at minor disagreements between key players, particularly between Jokić and Murray. While nothing has been confirmed, the fact that some players seem to be out of sync, especially on the court, has raised concerns. This lack of cohesion has manifested itself in sloppy ball movement, miscommunications on defense, and missed opportunities in crucial moments.
Pressure to Repeat
Another factor contributing to the Nuggets’ struggles is the immense pressure of defending their title. After winning the championship, the expectations for Denver skyrocketed. With the target squarely on their backs, the Nuggets have found it difficult to navigate the heightened scrutiny. It’s clear that every team they face is coming in with added motivation to beat the defending champions, and this newfound pressure might be weighing on the players more than they’d like to admit.
The Road Ahead
Despite their struggles, the Nuggets still have time to correct their course. With Jokić leading the charge, and the talent around him, they remain a dangerous team in the West. However, they’ll need to address their defensive lapses, improve team chemistry, and get healthy to reclaim their place among the league’s elite. If they can turn things around and recapture the form that led them to last year’s title, the Nuggets could still make a strong push for another championship. But if the issues persist, Denver’s chances of repeating could be in serious jeopardy.
As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on the Nuggets to see if they can overcome the shocking truth behind their struggles and return to their championship-contending form. The clock is ticking, and with the talent on their roster, it’s clear that the pressure is on to turn things around before it’s too late.
