Pickup games benefit young players, veterans

When Richard Jefferson posts up Malik Beasley inside, Darrell Arthur begins barking commands at the second-year guard suddenly matched against the 6foot-7, 17-year veteran.

“By yourself, Malik!” Arthur hollers. “One hand up!”

This moment is part lesson, part competition, part conditioning for Beasley within the loose structure of a 4-on-4 pickup game. Emmanuel Mudiay, Kenneth Faried, Juancho Hernangomez, Tyler Lydon and Monte Morris are the other Nuggets still on the Moda Center floor in Portland, Ore., long after a bus has taken most of the team back to the hotel to rest up for a recent game.

These no-rotation players aren’t seeing much game action for Denver, which begins 2018 with a 19-17 record and in sixth place in the Western Conference. But this collection of veterans and young players recognize there’s much to acquire from the extra on-court work against each other.

“Everybody gets something different out of it,” Jefferson said. “And you also gain respect for each other, because you see the competitiveness in everyone and how it can benefit each guy.”

Denver coach Michael Malone credits former Nugget Mike Miller with organizing regular pickup games during his time with the team from 2015-17. Now Jefferson and Arthur have taken over, a big part of their role as veteran mentors. Jefferson held similar duties with the Golden State Warriors from 2012-13, constantly working with then-youngsters Draymond Green, Klay Thompson and Harrison Barnes three years before facing them in the NBA Finals as a member of the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Sometimes, Jefferson tells Beasley not to shoot any 3-pointers, his forte. On the other end, Arthur will remind Beasley to use his forearm while guarding the taller Jefferson on the block. Beasley will need that skill in games, when he’s required to switch onto every position from point guard to power forward on a pick-and-roll.

“It’s just different challenges every day,” Beasley said.

Added Jefferson: “It might not show up today. It might not show up a month from now. But there will be a progression, whether it’s in six months or next season, when that opportunity is given, they’re in a more comfortable state. … When I tell you, ‘This is what you should work on’ and you see me doing it and being effective, you’re like, ‘Oh, OK. There’s something to that.’ ”