With the 2013 model of the NBA playoffs merely a matter of days away, the Denver Nuggets have assured themselves of home-court benefit in the first round, because of a 112-111 win on Monday night against the Milwaukee Bucks. With the Nuggets set to play their first-round game against either the Golden State Warriors (the much more likely of the two possible results) or the Memphis Grizzlies (this would involve the Nuggets to drop their final competition, while the La Clippers would have to win their final two regular-season games), they'll surely be viewed heavy favorites to advance to at least the next round of the Western Conference playoffs. With Ty Lawson back the lineup and in fine form (he tallied 26 points, seven assists and five panels in 38 minutes) after playing only three games because being wounded, Denver is prepared to create a drive for the NBA Finals. Despite losing Danilo Gallinari for the period with a ACL, the Nuggets boast an amazing arsenal of of talent at both ends of the ground. All of us realize that Ty Lawson, Andre Iguodala and Wilson Chandler will be relied upon to supply a lot of Denver's offense. The issue is, who are the role players that can actually help push the Nuggets to another location round of playoff competition? Evan Fournier Doug Pensinger/Getty Images Apparently enough, rookie guard Evan Fournier has just played less than 18 minutes once within the last few nine games. Any particular one time? Denver's 108-105 overtime loss to the Dallas Mavericks. It's also the only game the Nuggets have dropped in their last nine. Now, I'm not attempting to suggest that the Nuggets can't win without the French young weapon, that would be ridiculous. But, since getting improved minutes, the 6'6" youngster has made the most of his chances. In Denver's last eight tilts, Fournier has averaged very nearly 21 minutes per game, adding an average of 12.6 things, 2.8 assists and 2.3 boards over that span. He's also averaged over a steal per game (11 in his last nine suits), while turning the ball over just 10 times (his help turnover rate surpasses 2:1). Meanwhile, the seemingly unfazed rookie in addition has drilled almost 40 percent of his shots from beyond-the-arc and hit an awesome 17-of-18 free throws (great for a percentage of over 94 percent). With Gallinari out, Fournier's ability to continue steadily to perform only at that stage will undoubtedly be vital for Denver. As well as, having somebody who can hit free punches will soon be important to close out all-important playoff games, particularly considering the staff is among the worst in the category from the charity stripe. Corey Brewer Doug Pensinger/Getty Pictures Corey Brewer will be the largest one of many Nuggets' most critical parts. See, when planning for the Nuggets, opposing groups almost need certainly to pick their poison. It is nearly impossible to prevent the complete first system, in addition to Andre Miller, JaVale McGee and Corey Brewer. At some point, some one will probably be open. When Ty Lawson uses his speed to dash in to the lane and the protection breaks down on him, Brewer is usually the man left open on the edge. After when clubs have to help on defense and keep either him or Wilson Chandler available for a jumper, all, they're more often than not going to provide the shot to Brewer. That is suited Brewer just fine, as he's hit double figures in six of his last nine games off the table and has been a significant item for Denver this year. Despite shooting only 1-of-11 in his last two challenges, Brewer is really a essential part of Denver's great depth. If he's able to knock down his open photographs in the postseason, there is no telling how far this Nuggets staff can get. Kenneth Faried Doug Pensinger/Getty Pictures The greatest wild card, or X-Factor, for this team prepare for the grind of the 2013 NBA playoffs and while they summary their regular time, is energy forward Kenneth Faried. Based on the Denver Nuggets' official facebook consideration, Faried can skip the final two regular-season games with a ankle, but he's not been ruled out of any playoff activity only yet: If Faried were to miss some activity, it would hurt the group in a large way on the glass at both ends of the floor. As the team's top rebounder, Faried is just a animal on the glass despite being undersized. He also ranks on the list of league's top offensive rebounders, placing over three per game. If he's not fit to perform, Denver could have a genuine problem both on the glass and in the power department. Ideally Faried's ankle is feeling better for the team's playoff operator.
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