When the average fan thinks about the Nuggets, a few names come to mind. Allen Iverson, the 12 year veteran who has led the NBA in scoring numerous times, is often in the conversation. Carmelo Anthony, the fourth year All Star who has yet to hit his peak in the NBA, is fourth in the NBA in scoring behind Mr. Iverson. And, of course, J.R. Smith?? Who?
That name really shouldn’t be that unfamiliar to you. J.R., AKA the Rainmaker, the One Man Comeback, the Weatherman, went for 25 points last night…. In the fourth quarter! Smith has been absolutely amazing this season off the bench, shooting a staggering 42% beyond the arc and making six or more 3’s in eight games this season, tying an NBA record held by Peja Stojakovic.
Smith went for 27 points in only 21 minutes, which is also pretty significant. The only other player in Nuggets history to put up anything comparable to that feat is Alex English in 1984, when he put up 28 points in 21 minutes. That’s pretty good company to be in.
As for the team as a whole, the Nuggs have won three straight, and things are as crazy as ever in the West. Denver is only a half game out of the last spot in the playoffs, only three games behind division leader Utah, and six games out of the lead in the conference. Good news for the Nuggs, though, as competitors like Dallas and Huston seem to be cooling off and may slip behind Denver down the stretch.
Looking ahead, Denver (43-28) plays:
- The Dirk-less Dallas Mavericks (44-26) on Thursday
- The most important game of the year, Golden State (43-27) on Saturday (ya boy Mase will be in attendance)
- The Big Cactus and the Suns (47-23) on Monday
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