Denver Nuggets: 3 Expectations for Gary Harris

We wouldn’t expect regression from Gary Harris.

It almost seems ridiculous to even say but it would be devastating to the Nuggets if Harris took a step back this season.

There is so much made of Nikola Jokic‘ abilities and Jamal Murray‘s ceiling but Gary has quietly positioned himself as one of the best two-guards in the NBA.  That’s lofty territory and note we aren’t using qualifiers like “young” or “two-way”.

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Just recall the dagger versus the Oklahoma City Thunder for reference.  Try to picture a Harris drive, the Jordan-esque body control and strength, the touch at the rim.

Ok, this is getting weird.  The point is, there’s really no way around Gary’s greatness.  His humility makes it seem like he’s a complimentary player when he’s every bit the cog and leader that his Core-mates are.  Harris shares a special on-court relationship with Murray and Jokic.  The three-headed monster can dilute the perception of the individual performance but there’s no more important piece to the Nuggets success than Gary Harris.

To be mentioned in the company of Klay Thompson and James Harden is an honor that Harris has earned already but has a chance to solidify in the coming season.  If, as we anticipate, the Nuggets are a top-four Western Conference contender, Harris will have to be the guy we are also anticipating and he will.

There isn’t anyone on the Nuggets roster who inspires more confidence in his play.  Gary truly walks softly and carries a big stick.