Unexpected Nugget is exploding and leading the NBA preseason with impressive stats

For a while, it seemed like the Nuggets would have the most worrisome preseason of any team in the NBA. They dropped their first four contests, including many actions against replacement teams. They were dominated behind the three-point line, appeared to lack energy and fitness, and lacked effort defensively.

Additionally, Jamal Murray looked as bad as ever as he didn’t contribute much, didn’t take any shots, and didn’t even stay on the court. For a team that should have had enough motivation and time to stew and prepare, the Nuggets looked anything but.

But finally, Denver seemed to get things together in its fifth and final preseason game. They got their first win, but more importantly, they looked good and got Murray going. Jamal had a great game and looked much better than he has at any time in recent months.

This was a much-needed result and comprehensive performance as things became increasingly difficult in Denver. It wouldn’t have been fair to hit the panic button based on preseason results, but these games were extremely worrying because all the feared weaknesses were exposed and stood out like sore thumbs.

Perhaps lost in the shuffle as Murray’s big game began and the Nuggets finally emerged from the slump was Julain Strawther’s tremendous performance. Strawther was the breakout star of the preseason, not just for the Nuggets, but for the entire league.

Each of his performances was impressive, but his 33 points in the final game saw him lead the entire league in preseason points this year. This is an incredible development for a team that is dying for one of its young players to emerge. There was optimism that Strawther could be a rotation player this season, but it appears he can be much more.

Strawther appears to be a polished scorer and promising shooter, but he has demonstrated his all-around offensive prowess in a number of areas. He also has great size for a perimeter player and is capable of making an impact on both ends with his length and athleticism.

The Nuggets don’t need Strawther to be an All-Star this season, but if he can provide them with consistent offense off the bench, it would be a huge boost. It’s still early, but these early returns are promising. It looks like the Nuggets have found something, and it couldn’t come at a better time.