More than one streaky team
While the Miami Heat extended their winning streak to 21 with a strong victory over the Milwaukee Bucks this week, they aren't the only team that’s hot at the moment. The Denver Nuggets have quietly and efficiently been trumping teams left and right all throughout March.
In mid-March, the Denver Nuggets beat the Memphis Grizzlies 87-80, marking their 11th straight win. The Nuggets are currently sitting on a 45-22 record, but boast a nearly immaculate home record of 30-3. The game was played in the comfy confines of the Pepsi Center, and the Nuggets definitely gave their fans a lot to be proud of.
The game itself was definitely not played at Denver’s pace. Known more as a run and gun, high-scoring team, the Nuggets were forced to play at the Grizzlies' speed, sticking to half-court basketball. The Grizzlies are the best defensive team in the game and they demonstrated their efficiency in this game. The Nuggets were unable to rely on the fast break, but this equated to 18 points and a career-high 16 rebounds for center Kosta Koufos.
The "manimal" himself, aka Kenneth Faried, also had a big game, coming in as a defensive powerhouse. Faried blocked shots and stole rebounds from Memphis’ Zach Randolph. Randolph did lead the Grizzlies with 18 points and 18 rebounds, while Marc Gasol also chipped in 14 points and 7 boards.
What makes this win an interesting one is that the Los Angeles Clippers, the Memphis Grizzlies and the Denver Nuggets are all vying for the third spot in the Western Conference standings. The Grizzlies are currently number three, tied with the Clippers and a half game in front of the Nuggets. All three teams are fighting for home positions in the playoffs, and a chance to play the number six-seed. Golden State currently occupies that spot. The San Antonio Spurs are currently leading the west with 50-16 record.
Photo courtesy of Zimbio
