The Denver Nuggets suffered a humiliating 145-118 blowout loss to the New York Knicks on Monday night at Ball Arena. It wasn’t just the scoreline that stung but also the evident lack of effort and fighting spirit from the reigning champions. Head coach Michael Malone did not mince words post-game, expressing frustration with his team’s attitude and performance.
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A Humbling Defeat
The New York Knicks put on an extraordinary performance, shooting an incredible 60.9% from the field and dishing out 45 assists — tying a team record set in 1979. They led by as many as 30 points, dominating the Nuggets on their home court. The Knicks’ 145 points were the most by any visiting team at Ball Arena since 2022 and the highest in a regulation game in Denver since 1991.
For the Denver Nuggets, this was a shocking display on their home floor. Known for their dominance in Denver, the team’s 5-4 home record this season is a troubling sign. Malone voiced his disappointment:
“You don’t give up 145 points and call it just a bad game. You don’t play without effort, without toughness, and expect it to be acceptable. This is not something we can overlook.”
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What Went Wrong?
A key point of Malone’s criticism was the lack of consistency in how the Nuggets approached the game. He called on his starting lineup to show better leadership and set an example. While Russell Westbrook, who scored 27 points off the bench, received praise for his effort, star players like Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray were urged to step up.
“I need Jokic, I need Murray, I need the guys who have been here to lead by example. It’s not just about their individual performances; it’s about setting the tone for the team,” Malone said.
Nikola Jokic, Denver’s MVP and cornerstone player, scored 22 points but managed only seven rebounds, his season-low. He acknowledged the team’s lack of focus:
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“We just didn’t show up tonight. We’re consistently falling behind by 20 points in games. This isn’t about one player; the whole team needs to do better.”
Jamal Murray hinted that the team’s lack of preparation might have been influenced by their previous win against the Los Angeles Lakers. Staying in Los Angeles, where many players have personal ties, may have distracted the team.
“It’s a long season, and players have lives outside of basketball. Maybe some of us weren’t fully focused after the Lakers game, and this is what happens when you’re not locked in,” Murray admitted.
The Danger of Inconsistency
The Denver Nuggets, known for their resilience and strong defense, seem to be struggling with their identity this season. Last year, they boasted an impressive 33-8 home record. This season, they’ve already dropped four home games in the first month.
In addition to mental lapses, injuries have also impacted the team. The absence of Aaron Gordon and Jamal Murray’s inconsistent performances have put extra pressure on Jokic, who is already logging a career-high 38 minutes per game. Malone highlighted that these issues are not isolated to one game:
“We’re 16 games into the season, and we’re still talking about effort, toughness, and identity. This has to change immediately if we want to remain contenders.”
Knicks’ Example of Grit
While the Nuggets faltered, the Knicks displayed determination and cohesion. Jalen Brunson led the way with 23 points and 17 assists, while OG Anunoby recorded a career-high 40 points. After a tough loss in Utah, the Knicks bounced back with renewed energy — a contrast to Denver’s lackluster approach.)
“The Knicks played like a team coming off a tough loss, hungry to prove themselves. We played like a team content after beating the Lakers,” Malone lamented.
Immediate Changes Needed
The Denver Nuggets will have a chance to redeem themselves on Wednesday night against the Utah Jazz. It’s a critical moment for the team to show improvement not just in strategy but in their attitude and determination.
Both Malone and his players understand that being a championship-caliber team isn’t just about talent; it’s about resolve and leadership in adversity.
If the Nuggets fail to address these issues, the 2024-25 season could turn into a challenging campaign for a team once expected to defend their title successfully.
In conclusion, the blowout loss to the Knicks serves as a wake-up call the Nuggets cannot ignore. Can they bounce back stronger, or will this season be marred by inconsistency and disappointment? The answer lies in how they respond in the upcoming games.
