The Denver Nuggets kicked off the preseason with a bang, securing a 115-107 victory against the Phoenix Suns. While the win was impressive, the real star of the game was their talented rookie, Julian Strawther.
Despite the absence of key players such as Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal due to rest, the Suns put up a good fight. On the other hand, the Nuggets were without Michael Porter Jr. and Christian Braun due to injuries.
But it was Strawther who stole the spotlight. The first-round pick from this year's draft showcased his skills and potential, dropping an impressive 20 points. Throughout the game, Strawther displayed versatility in his play. He confidently knocked down three-pointers from off-ball screens, executed crafty floaters in pick-and-roll situations, and even amazed spectators with a pull-up three-pointer in the second half. His shooting line of 8-of-12 from the field and 4-of-7 from beyond the arc left fans and coaches in awe.
"He's a fluid player. He moves like an NBA player. He comes off screens like an NBA player. He's got a confidence and a swagger," expressed acting head coach David Adelman. "We're excited about him."
The Nuggets started strong, taking a 25-23 lead in the first quarter, with Kentavious Caldwell-Pope contributing 6 points from two made three-pointers. The quarter also marked the NBA debuts of two of Denver's rookies. Hunter Tyson entered the game at the 3:55 mark, followed by Strawther at the 2:30 mark.
Strawther wasted no time making an impact, scoring three points on the very first possession of the second quarter. He followed it up with a smooth floater in transition. Caldwell-Pope continued to contribute, sinking another three-pointer, while Reggie Jackson found his rhythm late in the quarter, adding 5 points. At halftime, the Nuggets held a 55-48 lead.
The third quarter became Strawther's playground. He erupted for 15 points, making all six of his shots, including three three-pointers. His display included a difficult-angle floater, a deep three-pointer after a series of dribbles, and another three-pointer off a wide pindown. With Strawther's explosive third quarter, the Nuggets entered the final quarter with a comfortable 87-77 lead.
At the start of the fourth quarter, Peyton Watson drained his second three-pointer of the game, demonstrating improved shooting mechanics. Nnaji continued to dominate, scoring 13 points in the period, the highest for both teams. With a solid performance down the stretch, the Nuggets sealed their first preseason victory.
Julian Strawther's impressive debut undoubtedly has fans eagerly anticipating his future contributions to the Denver Nuggets. As the preseason progresses, it will be exciting to see how Strawther's skills continue to develop and how he can make a lasting impact on the team.
