A deep dive into how The Denver Nuggets are becoming gold standard of NBA

Malone did the same with Jokic, but this time on offense. However, that was not his only contribution. He set the standards about what kind of players to draft, how the training setup would be, and whatnot. One of his trademark points has been to bring in players with the least amount of ego. And the front office delivered just as he asked.

They drafted Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr., two former stars of their respective college teams, but with their heads level on their shoulders. They also brought in former Orlando Magic superstar Aaron Gordon. Again, an egoless player. All of this made up the core of the championship-winning team. Their players have blossomed into the best in the league, and do not mind sharing the rock.

The methods continued as former NBA player Calvin Booth took up the GM’s post. He drafted Christian Braun who went on to contribute immensely during the playoffs. It has also seen the Nuggets stay away from overpaying for any player, an important part of establishing a winning culture.

A team filled with stars, but devoid of ego

Nikola Jokic is a 2-time league MVP, and now a Finals MVP to go along with his title win. In the NBA, a player with not even half of his achievements has egos the size of hot air balloons. But not Jokic. He quietly goes about his business of producing elite-level basketball day in and day out. The same can be said about Jamal Murray, with whom Jokic combines to make the most devastating pick-and-roll duo in the league.

Michael Porter Jr. is another great example. Once touted as the heir to LeBron James, the 6′ 10″ forward has been molded into a great threat when needed, but a pure team player when not. Add to him Aaron Gordon, who was once known for his flashy dunks and incredible persona. The standards set in Denver have made him into the team’s best all-rounder. And he happily sticks to his task and shows none of his old self.

This mentality also extends to role players. The Nuggets chose to not overpay Bruce Brown, one of the most important cogs in their championship wheel. They also let go of others who felt they could earn more money elsewhere.

After this off-season was over, many analysts thought the lack of a solid bench could be the undoing of the Nuggets. But so far, they have proved otherwise. Picking up and developing rotational players has enabled the Nuggets to climb back to the top of the Western Conference. An ode to their winning culture.

The Denver Nuggets and a winning culture

When the Golden State Warriors set the standard for the NBA in the last decade, every other team wanted to emulate them. In most cases, it is not that simple. Several aspects have to fall into place to have one successful season. Doing it for a few years is an altogether different task. Had it not been for injuries to Michael Porter Jr. and Jamal Murray, it is quite possible that the Denver Nuggets could have at least fought for more championships.

But at least they have ensured that the culture is there for the foreseeable future. Yes, some players may want to leave for a bigger paycheck as not everyone is willing to take discounts for the sake of winning championships.

To sum it up, essentially, drafting the right players, and setting the standards on commitment, selflessness, and a desire to win, are their basic standards. This structure and mentality, ingrained by the owners, front office, and coach Michael Malone, ensures that the Nuggets can continue to be the gold standard of the NBA year after year.