In advance of the 2022–23 NBA season, we had opposing scouts size up every division. Here’s what they’re saying about each Western Conference team, from top to bottom. You can find East takes here.
NORTHWEST
- The Nuggets start with Nikola Jokić, who is still the best passing big, or best passer period, maybe, in the league. He finds everybody. ... If Jamal Murray is healthy, he projects as an All-Star. Their two-man game is really hard to guard. ... Aaron Gordon is a pretty good fit next to Jokić. He is a willing and good defender. … Bones Hyland showed some flashes as a rookie, but he had a habit of playing selfishly. He’s going to get more time with Monte Morris gone, but he’s going to have to change his game. … Bruce Brown isn’t a great shooter, but he is such a good cutter that he will get you easy baskets. ... Michael Porter Jr. is a very good scorer and an awful defender. He’ll fire off dumb shots and make them—he’s that good. If he can stay healthy, the Nuggets are as good as any team in the conference.
