gazette
In the Denver Nuggets' preseason opener on Sunday at CU Events Center, rookie Trevon Brazile was quickly thrown into the fire. With Spencer Jones sidelined by a hamstring strain, Brazile stepped in as the second-string power forward in the first quarter, tasked with guarding the likes of Jaren Jackson Jr. and Lauri Markkanen.
"With Markkanen and Jackson, why wait? Welcome to the NBA, man," Nuggets coach David Adelman remarked after the 109-97 loss. "These are two former All-Stars, a former Defensive Player of the Year. Markkanen's one of the best international players in the world. Let's just do it."
Though not flawless, the bouncy 6-foot-10 forward's potential was evident. In the third quarter, he emphatically rejected Jazz forward Ace Bailey's attempt at a poster dunk, then pushed the ball up the floor, leading to a Julian Strawther 3-pointer. "I think he's more than an athlete, and he's showcasing that," Strawther said. "Obviously, he's a great defender. He can shoot it with confidence. I think the things that he brings to the game are things that were lacking as a unit. When he gets an opportunity, he's going to pop in different ways."
Brazile's first basket came on a two-handed slam in front of the Buffaloes student section. He finished with 7 points on four shots, 3 rebounds, and a couple of blocks in over 20 minutes. "I felt great," Brazile said. "It was good to get out there and get a run against real pros, not just Summer League. It was really beneficial."
The 23-year-old admitted the pace of the NBA game was a bit surprising, but his coach believed Brazile's second stint was stronger than his first. "With Spence not playing, I knew I got to play a lot more," Brazile said. "I'm really locking in on film with the player development staff. They help me out a lot for sure."
Brazile should see more playing time to acclimate before the regular season. Adelman said pregame that the hope is Jones is ready for Denver's season opener in Oklahoma City on Oct. 22, likely meaning he won't play in the preseason. The coach added he planned to rotate backup power forwards based on matchups, but Brazile earned the first opportunity. "He also made some very unique plays for our team. We don't have a lot of guys that have done that over the years – shot-blocking, running the floor, dunking the ball," Adelman said. "He just has to have a better recognition of who's guarding him and how to attack that. That's going to come with time."
Key Analysis
Brazile's performance highlighted his potential as a versatile defender and athlete, filling a void for the Nuggets. His ability to block shots and run the floor impressed coaches and teammates, suggesting he could earn a rotational role. With Jones out, Brazile's opportunity to develop is crucial for Denver's depth.
Game Summary
Jazz 109, Nuggets 97
- What happened: Utah led 62-52 at halftime before the starters watched the second half from the sideline and held on to win the preseason opener.
- What went right: Nikola Jokic made the only shot he attempted and prioritized getting other guys involved to the tune of 7 assists and no turnovers in 14 minutes.
- What went wrong: Jamal Murray missed the game due to personal reasons, though he watched from the bench in street clothes.
- Highlight of the night: Jokic's best assist was a behind-the-back pass from one corner to the other where Cam Johnson was waiting for a catch-and-shoot 3.
- Up next: The Nuggets and Jazz play again Tuesday in Salt Lake City.
Originally reported by gazette.