Denver Nuggets Honor Doug Moe
DENVER (AP) – As the Denver Nuggets prepare for the challenges ahead this season, they took a moment on Wednesday to honor the legacy of the late Doug Moe, a former coach who significantly impacted basketball in Denver and beyond. Moe passed away at the age of 87 on Tuesday and is celebrated for his contributions to the game, particularly influencing offensive styles during his tenure as head coach of the Nuggets throughout the 1980s.
Legacy of Doug Moe
Moe, an original member of the American Basketball Association (ABA), is best remembered for his dynamic motion offense and his colorful sideline presence. Head coach David Adelman highlighted the importance of Moe’s innovative strategies, emphasizing that those techniques laid the groundwork for the fast-paced, free-flowing style prevalent in today’s NBA.
“For the younger guys who might not fully understand his impact, we made sure that was communicated,”
he reflected, recognizing Moe as a true sports legend in Denver.
Adelman expressed his sadness over Moe’s death, acknowledging the honor of following in his footsteps and the significance of Moe’s contribution to evolving basketball tactics. Players, including forward Cam Johnson, echoed this sentiment, paying tribute to Moe as a pioneer who pushed the boundaries of the game and shaped the league into what it is today.
Looking Ahead to the Season
Looking ahead to the remainder of the season, Adelman noted that the Nuggets must prioritize health and improve their defensive play to compete for another championship title—this time against the reigning Oklahoma City Thunder. With an offensive record that has been elite, the focus now shifts toward solidifying their defensive strategies as well.
“Finding a balance between offense and defense will make us a formidable team,”
he stated.
Johnson acknowledged the existing championship mindset within the roster, highlighting the presence of skilled players, including those who have previously won titles. Despite the setbacks from injuries, with several starters sidelined—including defensive keystones Aaron Gordon and Peyton Watson—Johnson believes the team’s depth has been challenged yet resilient.
Current Standing and Future Goals
As the Nuggets currently sit at third in the Western Conference with a 35-20 record, their drive for excellence remains undeterred despite the injury list that has plagued them over the past two months. Johnson emphasized the importance of the recent All-Star break for rejuvenation, allowing players to heal and mentally reset amidst the tight playoff race, where only six games separate the Nuggets from the eighth-seeded Golden State Warriors.
The team aims to leverage its past successes offensively while sharpening their defensive abilities, as center Jonas Valanciunas pointed out.
“It’s going to be intense,”
he stated, underlining the urgency as they prepare for the competitive landscape ahead and seek to maximize the potential of their roster as they journey toward the playoffs.
