NBA Preview: Denver Nuggets (33-42) vs. Memphis Grizzlies (44-31)
By Andrew Dill
Mar 31, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Nuggets forward Kenneth Faried (35) drives to the basket during the first half against the Memphis Grizzlies at Pepsi Center. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
The Denver Nuggets (33-42) are coming off of a blowout win over the New Orleans Pelicans Wednesday night, defeating them by the final score of 137-107. Kenneth Faried would post a career-high night, scoring 34 points on 14-of-19 shooting, collecting 13 rebounds, 2 assists, and 3 blocks in the win. Faried looks like he is starting to figure out his offensive game and this is a great sign for the Nuggets and their fans moving forward into next season. Timofey Mozgov would chip in 15 points of his own on 5-of-11 shooting in which he would knock down a rare three-pointer.
What: NBA Preview: vs.
When: Friday, April 4th
Where: FedExForum
Time: 7:00 PM ET, 5:00 PM MT
TV: Altitude Sports
This is the fourth and final meeting between the two teams as the Memphis Grizzlies currently hold the upper-hand, up 2-1. In their most recent meeting just five days ago on Mar. 31st, Memphis held the Nuggets off by two points, winning 94-92. Zach Randolph was too much for Denver in the post, scoring 20 points on 8-of-15 shooting, collecting 11 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1 steal. Courtney Lee and Michael Conley would each chip in 19 points apiece en route to victory. Timofey Mozgov would take advantage of Memphis in the post, scoring 23 points on 0-of-15 shooting, collecting 10 rebounds and 1 block
Injuries have been a mess this season for the Denver Nuggets, but head coach Brian Shaw views this as an advantage moving forward. With players like Danilo Gallinari, JaVale McGee, Nate Robinson, and J.J. Hickson all out for the year with serious injuries, it has given players like Quincy Miller time to develop.
"“I’ve been pleased,” Shaw said. “Some guys have gotten maybe overworked because there’s been so many guys out (with injuries) that they are getting extra time.”"
Projected Starting Lineups:
Denver Nuggets:
PG: Ty Lawson
SG: Randy Foye
SF: Quincy Miller
PF: Kenneth Faried
C: Timofey Mozgov
Memphis Grizzlies:
PG: Mike Conley
SG: Courtney Lee
SF: Tayshaun Prince
PF: Zach Randolph
C: Marc Gasol