Meet the Nuggets

The Power Six 14 Gary Harris SG | Age: 25 | 6-foot-5 | 205 pounds

Injuries derailed much of last season for Harris prior to him making critical contributions in Denver’s firstround playoff series victory. When healthy, Harris is the Nuggets’ best perimeter defender and one of their best 3-point shooters. He still has much to prove in his sixth season.

4 Paul Millsap PF | 34 | 6-8 | 250 pounds

The title window is closing for the aging star in the final year of his contract. Millsap is no longer the dependable scorer of his prime, but his leadership is essential when Denver encounters adversity. Managing his minutes with the Nuggets’ youth will keep him fresh going into the playoffs.

15 Nikola Jokic C | 24 | 6-11 | 253 pounds

No longer is Denver’s lovable Serbian a hidden gem in the Rockies. His otherworldly performance in the playoffs put the entire NBA on notice, and now, an encore will come with championship expectations. Jokic must learn to keep his emotions in check at important times.

9 Jerami Grant SF | 25 | 6-8 | 214 pounds

Denver traded for Grant this offseason after he had a career year in Oklahoma City with highs for points (13.6), 3-point percentage (39.2) and rebounds (5.2). He will initially back up starter Paul Millsap, but Grant’s versatility and scoring could be a huge difference-maker.

27 Jamal Murray PG | 22 | 6-4 | 201 pounds

Expectations have never been higher for Murray to play at an all-star level after he signed a $170 million max contract this offseason. He is among the game’s top scorers at his position, but his defensive lapses were exposed in Denver’s second-round playoffs exit. Those must be cleaned up.

5 Will Barton SF | 28 | 6-6 | 190 pounds

Barton is paid like a starter, but his role is locked in. A career-best 2017-18 season landed him a contract extension and injuries/inconsistency last season halted a rising career arc. Barton brings a dynamic offensive presence when he can find his rhythm. Now, Barton needs to keep it.