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Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets have clinched the first seed in the Western Conference. While it's a cause for celebration, fans don't necessarily see it the same way.
The Nuggets have impressed this season. Led by reigning MVP Nikola Jokic and star guard Jamal Murray, they have surprised fans by putting up a dominant season. They're the first team to clinch a playoff spot in the West and have now clinched the first seed with a few games left.
With a 52-27 record, the Nuggets are safely ahead of second-placed Memphis Grizzlies (50-30) by 2.5 games. While it's a major achievement for the franchise, appreciation hasn't been forthcoming from fans.
Some shared surprising reactions to the Nuggets clinching the Western Conference for the first time. One called them 'fradulent':
"Most Fradulent 1st seed ever"
Here are some of the other reactions:
The Nuggets have undoubtedly earned their spot as the first seed. However, their recent stretch of outings has done some damage to their reputation. While considering the shifting tide in the MVP debate after Joel Embiid's recent surge, both Denver and Jokic may have something to prove.
Will Denver Nuggets be threat in playoffs?
The Denver Nuggets could be a tricky team to face in the playoffs. Denver will benefit from having homecourt advantage all the way through the West.
With Nikola Jokic leading the charge, the Nuggets appear to be a threat. At least, that's the case on paper. While Denver seems dangerous, there are some shortcomings opponents could exploit in the playoffs.
The most pressing concern is their defense. Defenses tighten up in the playoffs. While the Denver Nuggets have some impressive defensive players in Aaron Gordon and Bruce Brown, Jokic could be a net liability. The lack of big man depth may also hurt the team.
The Nuggets also have a poor track record in the playoffs. Since their impressive run in the bubble three years ago, Denver hasn't been able to recreate that same success.
Whether that has been due to team adjustments or an overall drop-off in performance is debatable. However, the Nuggets have a lot of issues to address to make some noise in the postseason.
A difference-maker this season, though, is Jamal Murray's availability. With Murray on the floor, teams will have to be wary of a scoring option apart from Jokic. This could do wonders for Denver.
Jokic, meanwhile, is a walking triple-double machine. WIth the Serb leading the way, the Denver Nuggets will always be a threat. What will be interesting to see is how Murray turns up in the playoffs.
Guess the Lakers players!
