Denver HC Michael Malone Compares Thunder to Nuggets

On Saturday night, the Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Denver Nuggets in a closely contested game. With less than a second left in the game, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander made a basket to help the Thunder win 118–117. The young Thunder, who are once again the No. 2 seed in the west, pulled off a valiant victory over the defending champions while playing on the road in Denver, which is especially difficult due to the altitude. Mike Malone, the head coach of the Nuggets, paid the Thunder a small complement following the victory.

Malone stated following the game, “You kind of see some of us in them.” “A youthful, talented group that is working through the fundamentals of improving.” Making the transition from a squad aiming to qualify for the playoffs to one that can progress and compete well in the postseason.”

This is significant because it will allow the young Thunder squad to overcome these obstacles and building blocks as a team, continuously growing and learning what it takes to go to the next level of competition. It’s also very helpful to have a star like Gilgeous-Alexander, who is a self-aware player who understands the broader picture. “I know we ended up winning that early-season match in Oklahoma City by a huge margin, but that was an exception. It feels like there is a dogfight every time we play this team. It reaches the wire,” Malone went on. “I believe the NBA is paying attention to them.” This is also in line with what Steve Kerr said regarding the Thunder. This Thunder team is coming, and they have nothing to lose and no high expectations, which makes them a difficult team to play against every night.