The Denver Nuggets came into the 2025-26 season not just with a target on their backs-but with sky-high expectations that might even exceed those from their championship run two years ago. After silencing skeptics with a dominant 2022-23 title campaign, capped by a ruthless sweep of the Lakers, the Nuggets officially graduated from “underrated contender” to “championship-or-bust” territory.
And so far? They’re living up to the billing.
Through 25 games, Denver sits at 19-6, and they’re not just winning-they’re winning with style, substance, and a level of offensive execution that’s pushing the boundaries of what we’ve seen in NBA history. Even with the Oklahoma City Thunder surging and the Knicks riding high off their NBA Cup win, the Nuggets have carved out a strong case as the league’s most complete team when healthy.
Let’s start with the numbers-because they’re eye-popping. Denver’s Net Rating of +9.0 per 100 possessions ranks fourth in the league, trailing only OKC, Houston, and New York.
But the real jaw-dropper? The Nuggets are scoring 126.0 points per 100 possessions.
That’s not just best in the league-it’s the best ever recorded. For context, the league average sits at 116.0.
That’s a 10-point gap between Denver and the middle of the pack, which is almost unheard of in today’s hyper-competitive NBA landscape.
Of course, it all starts with Nikola Jokic. The two-time MVP continues to operate as the engine of this machine, orchestrating everything with his signature mix of vision, touch, and unselfish brilliance. Jamal Murray, back in full rhythm, has re-established himself as the perfect co-pilot, balancing scoring and playmaking while giving Denver a lethal two-man game that’s nearly impossible to defend.
The supporting cast has stepped up as well. Denver’s offseason additions have bolstered the rotation, and despite injuries to key players like Aaron Gordon and Christian Braun, the Nuggets haven’t missed a beat.
They’ve even done something they’ve never done before-win 11 straight road games. That’s a franchise first, and it speaks to the mental toughness and continuity of this group.
Defensively, it’s a bit more complicated. The Nuggets currently rank 18th in Defensive Rating, which doesn’t exactly scream “elite.”
But there’s more nuance here. They’re actually above average in key categories like opponent effective field goal percentage, offensive rebounding allowed, and free throw rate.
Where they struggle is in generating turnovers-Denver ranks second-to-last in forced turnover rate at just 12.9%. That’s largely by design.
This isn’t a team that gambles in the passing lanes or pressures the ball aggressively. Instead, they rely on positioning, discipline, and solid rotations.
Still, there’s a noticeable drop in defensive intensity against weaker opponents. Denver ranks 25th in defensive efficiency when facing Bottom 10 offenses-a sign that they sometimes let their foot off the gas when they don’t feel threatened. It’s not ideal, but when you’re putting up historic offensive numbers, there’s a bit more margin for error.
And that’s been the theme of this early season: margin. Even with injuries, even with some defensive lapses, the Nuggets have built themselves enough of a cushion to keep rolling.
That’s thanks in large part to the depth stepping up. Spencer Jones and Peyton Watson have been solid in spot starts.
Cam Johnson is still finding his rhythm but showing flashes. Julian Strawther is back in the mix, and his return should help stabilize the second unit alongside veterans like Tim Hardaway Jr., Bruce Brown, and Jonas Valanciunas.
The timeline for Gordon and Braun is looking like a return around New Year’s, which is good news for Denver. There’s no need to rush them back, especially with the team outperforming early projections. The Nuggets were expected to be around 17-8 at this point-so sitting at 19-6 gives them some breathing room and flexibility.
As for the big picture? Before the season, 58 wins felt like a solid target.
Based on their current point differential, they’re actually pacing for 60+. That’s elite territory, and while the schedule will toughen up, Denver has shown they can weather adversity and still come out on top.
Bottom line: as long as Jokic and Murray are healthy and playing at this level, the Nuggets are going to be a problem for the rest of the league. They’ve got the firepower, the chemistry, and the experience. And if this is the version of Denver we’re getting for the rest of the season, don’t be surprised if they’re hoisting another banner when it’s all said and done.