Patience pays off for the Denver Nuggets
The Nuggets have stood by center Nene Hilario through his first few years when he was injured quite a bit and it’s paying off. He played well last season but he has even been better this year. Nene has played in 40 games (all starts) for the Nuggets this season and he is averaging 34.2 minutes, 14.2 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.6 steals and 1.0 blocked shot per game. The 27-year old Nene is shooting 58.1% from the floor as most of his shots come from close range.
The Nuggets are loaded with some talented play-makers, but Nene quietly gives them a strong presence down low. He gives them a little bit of everything, like strong low-post scoring, rebounding, and good defense/shot blocking. Nene doesn’t get the publicity a lot of the other Nuggets’ key players get, but he is an essential part of their success. If the Nuggets want to make a strong run at the NBA Finals come playoff time, they are going to need Nene to continue his strong and efficient play.