Pickaxe and Roll

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Ryan Blackburn from DenverStiffs.com brings you the latest news and analysis for the Denver Nuggets on every episode, including some the best guests from around the NBA.

Mile High Sports


    • Oct 7, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 46m AVG DURATION
    • 887 EPISODES

    4.9 from 213 ratings Listeners of Pickaxe and Roll that love the show mention: nuggets fan, best nuggets, blackburn, postgame, denver, numbers, basketball, detailed, analysis, whenever, players, great listen, must listen, thoughtful, voice, team, keep up the great, great show, lot, hosts.


    Ivy Insights

    The Pickaxe and Roll podcast is a must-listen for any basketball fan, especially those who are fans of the Denver Nuggets. Hosted by Ryan Blackburn, this podcast offers unparalleled analysis of matchups and lineup rotations that requires both intelligence and extensive study. Blackburn's in-depth knowledge of the game shines through in every episode, making other shows sound superficial by comparison.

    One of the best aspects of this podcast is the incredible amount of detail and thoughtfulness put into each episode. Blackburn's analysis is top-notch, often providing insights that go beyond what is typically discussed on mainstream sports networks like ESPN. He has a knack for quickly analyzing different aspects of the game, showcasing his mastery of basketball and his undying loyalty to the Nuggets. Whether it's breaking down data and numbers or offering thoughtful commentary on players and their performances, Blackburn consistently delivers high-quality content.

    However, one potential downside to the podcast is when Blackburn ventures into opinion-based narratives. At times, it may seem like he lacks firsthand experience playing the game competitively, as he focuses primarily on data and numbers rather than considering intangible factors that can influence player performance. While his analytical approach is impressive, it would be beneficial to also acknowledge the human element of basketball and recognize that players are more than just statistics.

    In conclusion, The Pickaxe and Roll podcast is an outstanding resource for Nuggets fans looking for intelligent dialogue about their favorite team. Ryan Blackburn's expertise in lineup combinations and meticulous attention to detail make every episode a great listen. While there may be minor shortcomings when it comes to incorporating personal experiences into his analysis, overall, this podcast offers unmatched analysis that sets it apart from others in its genre.



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    Latest episodes from Pickaxe and Roll

    Murray and Braun SHINE! Nuggets win Preseason game vs Toronto

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 7, 2025 42:27


    On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn reacts to the Denver Nuggets preseason win over the Toronto Raptors on Monday night. Jamal Murray and Christian Braun reached impressive levels, and Nikola Jokic didn't miss a shot against the undersized Raptors frontcourt. Ryan breaks down the strong showing from the starters, 31 turnovers against heavy ball pressure, and concerns about the bench unit. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    First Impressions from Nuggets Preseason

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 6, 2025 39:55


    On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn reacts to the Denver Nuggets preseason opener, a loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, in San Diego on Saturday. Ryan shares insights, discusses what matters and what doesn't, and talks Nuggets rotations. Then, he previews tonight's matchup vs the Toronto Raptors in Vancouver. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    The Nuggets play basketball again!

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 4, 2025 40:04


    On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn previews the upcoming Denver Nuggets vs Minnesota Timberwolves matchup, a preseason opener for the Nuggets after training camp in San Diego. He discusses different storylines, rotation questions, and says the Nuggets preseason will be a success IF these things happen... Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    How Denver Nuggets are making most of Training Camp in San Diego

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 2, 2025 45:07


    On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn reacts to the first two days of Denver Nuggets training camp and all of the great signs that the Nuggets are building things the right way. He discusses changes Denver is making, defensive principles, and the current bench pecking order. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    The Denver Nuggets had a perfect Media Day

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 30, 2025 41:12


    On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn breaks down what happened during Monday's Media Day for the Denver Nuggets. He discusses comments by Nikola Jokic about his contract, Jamal Murray's approach to the season, Cam Johnson and Jonas Valanciunas' introductions to Denver, and much more. Then, he wraps up with discussion on head coach David Adelman. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Jeff Morton on Denver Nuggets, Stranger Things, Top TV Shows of 2025

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 27, 2025 72:13


    On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn is joined by Jeff Morton of the CSG Podcast to share final thoughts before Denver Nuggets Media Day on Monday. Then, they get into favorite TV shows and movies they've watched recently, discussing Netflix's offerings. Finally, they discuss Season 5 of Stranger Things' release in a few weeks. TIMESTAMPS 0:00 - Intro 2:25 - Nikola Jokic's Prime 11:30 - Non-Jokic Minutes and Expectations 16:40 - Media Day Hopes 27:00 - TV Shows we're watching 41:45 - Playing old and new video games 47:30 - Foundational Movies 59:30 - Stranger Things Season 5 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    ESPN NBA Player Rankings are the worst

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 39:46


    On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn reacts to the ESPN Top 100 Player Rankings list that placed Jamal Murray 46th, Christian Braun at 62nd, and had three other Nuggets placed as well. Ryan disagrees with some rankings before going into more depth on Braun's areas for improvement in the 2025-26 season. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    A CRITICAL Injury might help the Denver Nuggets

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2025 38:07


    On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn breaks down the injury of Fred VanVleet for the Houston Rockets and how his loss changes the Western Conference playoff picture. Then, he ranks the Nuggets by their impact in case of an injury and how well the Nuggets could survive without Nikola Jokic. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    More Rotation Stuff + The OKC Thunder Rematch will Feed Families

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2025 33:12


    On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn shares additional thoughts on the Denver Nuggets rotation, breaking down five separate rotation concepts that the Nuggets will utilize in the 2025-26 NBA season. Then, Ryan focuses on the Nuggets vs Oklahoma City Thunder playoff matchup and how Denver will fare when both teams play a "Win-or-Go-Home" game once again. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    The Nuggets Ideal Rotation will be 9 Players

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 16, 2025 39:19


    On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn shares his thoughts on the state of the Denver Nuggets rotation heading into the 2025-26 regular season. If the Nuggets are to take advantage of Jonas Valanciunas' skill set, they must stagger Jamal Murray and Cam Johnson enough to set him up. Ryan also breaks down why a 10-man rotation may not be viable for Denver if they want to be at their best later in the year. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    If the Denver Nuggets FAIL, it's because THIS Happened

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 13, 2025 31:39


    On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn discusses the other side of the "Surprise" events with some negative surprises. If the Nuggets 2025-26 season doesn't go as expected, it's probably because one of a few things happened. Ryan discusses the scenarios, discusses the WORST case scenario, and how the Nuggets can avoid falling into that trap.

    Five MAJOR Surprises that could shake the Nuggets

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 11, 2025 32:24


    On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn breaks down what the baseline expectation for the Denver Nuggets should be along with five significant events that could change that expectation for the better. He also discusses the end of Denver's bench and how it should be much better in 2026 than it was in 2025.

    Serbia loss shows Nikola Jokic has one MAJOR weakness

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2025 37:27


    On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn breaks down the Serbia EuroBasket loss in the Round-of-16 to Finland. Nikola Jokic was tremendous offensively, but it wasn't enough for a flawed Serbia roster. Ryan discusses why Serbia lost, how Jokic's lone weakness translates to the NBA game, and what the Nuggets look like when they're at their best and their worst.

    Serbia looks VERY vulnerable at EuroBasket + Kawhi Leonard Controversy

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2025 33:18


    On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn breaks down the loss by Serbia vs Turkey in their final EuroBasket Group Play game. Serbia and Nikola Jokic will advance, but they look shakier than ever before after injuries to Bogdan Bogdanovic and Aleksa Avramovic. Then, Ryan discusses the Kawhi Leonard controversy with the Los Angeles Clippers and Aspiration, a potential issue the NBA will have to face head-on. Try ZipRecruiter for FREE at ZipRecruiter.com/audio

    What ACTUALLY Matters for the Denver Nuggets this Year

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 2, 2025 39:18


    On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn shares what he believes are the most important points of the season for the Denver Nuggets in 2025-26. Is it more important to start or finish the year strong? Ryan says neither. He also discusses Cam Johnson, the bench pecking order, and head coach David Adelman increasing his "Circle of Trust" before the playoffs. Try ZipRecruiter for FREE at ZipRecruiter.com/audio Visit Fanduel.com to get started!

    Why Nikola Jokic will LEAD NBA in Assists next year

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2025 31:30


    On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn reacts to Nikola Jokic and the Serbian National Team winning vs Estonia in EuroBasket in dominant fashion. He also discusses Jokic's chances at leading the NBA in assists in 2025-26. Finally, Ryan talks about the quiet NBA offseason overall and why it might be good for the league.

    Projecting every Nuggets player by Points Per Game this season

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2025 31:37


    On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn breaks down the entire Denver Nuggets rotation and gives his points per game projections for the 2025-26 NBA season. Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray are the clubhouse leaders, but who will be third? Who leads the bench unit? Ryan gives his projections here.

    Nikola Jokic and Serbia look DOMINANT + 2023 NBA Finals Look back

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2025 39:19


    On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn reacts to Serbia's dominant showing against Slovenia in EuroBasket and how Nikola Jokic and the Serbian National team look right now. Ryan also reminisces on the 2023 NBA Finals and what he remembers about how Jokic, Jamal Murray, and the Nuggets dialed in against the Miami Heat.

    The BEST Starting Lineups in the NBA

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 19, 2025 43:51


    On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn ranks the best starting units in the NBA today in a tier list. Will the Denver Nuggets be the best starting five in basketball? Who will be the worst? Ryan dives in.

    Why Denver Nuggets fans should HATE the new Schedule

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 15, 2025 35:19


    On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn goes into depth about the NBA Schedule release and why Denver Nuggets fans should be mad at the NBA. He also breaks down the Top 10 games on the calendar with some additional details.

    What NOBODY is telling you about the Denver Nuggets right now

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2025 36:09


    On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn breaks down what nobody is mentioning about the Denver Nuggets this offseason, from Tim Hardaway Jr.'s role to the Sixth Man competition to health concerns for Cam Johnson and Aaron Gordon. Then, he goes over the NBA schedule that Nuggets fans should want.

    How NBA Expansion SHOULD Happen, according to Ryan

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2025 31:08


    On the latest Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn takes on NBA Expansion and puts together an NBA schedule layout that makes sense for 32 teams in the near future, including the NBA Cup. How would the NBA change in this layout? Ryan makes the case for how it would benefit the NBA.

    Who will win NBA Championships these next Five Years?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2025 38:38


    On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn shares his Burning Questions for both the Denver Nuggets and the NBA over the next five seasons, including who wins the next five titles, whether anyone supplants Nikola Jokic as the best player, and more.

    Nikola Jokic will be a Top 10 NBA Player All-Time if THIS Happens

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2025 34:48


    Ryan Blackburn discusses Nikola Jokic's All-Time NBA Ranking and what it will take for him to rise up the list. Then, he discusses the value of rest this year and how Jamal Murray can help.

    Bruce Brown and a new role in Denver

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2025 32:00


    On the latest Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn breaks down all things Bruce Brown for the Denver Nuggets, including what happened with Brown in the last two seasons away from Denver. He discusses Brown's expected role and whether he can recapture the magic of the 2022-23 season in Denver.

    Who plays the most in Denver Nuggets rotation?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2025 32:17


    On the latest Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn puts together a minutes projection for the Denver Nuggets in 2025-26 that looks WAY more appealing than this past season. He also discusses who might get cut from the rotation and whether it will make the Nuggets a better team.

    An NBA Title Contender Tier List

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2025 37:53


    On the latest Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn reacts to some Nuggets news about Jonas Valanciunas and Curtis Jones before breaking down his NBA Contenders Tier List. Where do the Nuggets rank among all NBA teams in their chance of winning an NBA title this year? Ryan gives his thoughts.

    The Nuggets Offseason Checklist is ALMOST Complete

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2025 39:58


    On the latest Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn breaks down the Denver Nuggets offseason moves up to this point and the moves they still have to make. He also discusses whether the Nuggets could've done better with what they have and makes a firm determination.

    Summer League Check-In + The 15th Roster Spot

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2025 38:36


    On the latest Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn breaks down the first two games of Denver Nuggets Summer League and how the roster players have looked so far from DaRon Holmes and Hunter Tyson to Spencer Jones and Tamar Bates. Then, he looks closer at the roster and discusses why the Nuggets might carry 14 players on their roster into the 2025-26 season.

    DaRon Holmes RETURNS in intriguing Summer League Debut

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2025 40:00


    On the latest Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn reacts to last night's Summer League game featuring DaRon Holmes II and the Denver Nuggets. He shares thoughts on Holmes, Hunter Tyson, Tamar Bates, Spencer Jones, and more from Denver's first game in Las Vegas.

    Why Nikola Jokic is NOT signing an extension with Denver Nuggets

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2025 39:36


    On the latest Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn reacts to the news that Nikola Jokic will wait until next offseason to sign an extension with the Denver Nuggets. He also shares a Jonas Valanciunas update before pivoting to DaRon Holmes II and the Nuggets Summer League squad.

    Jonas Valanciunas is leaving the NBA...What?!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 5, 2025 47:08


    On the latest Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn breaks down the surprisingly complicated situation between the Denver Nuggets and Jonas Valanciunas, who no longer wants to play in the NBA and appears to have signed a contract in Greece. Where do the Nuggets go from here? Ryan discusses a variety of backup center options for the Nuggets in his stead.

    A closer look at the REVAMPED Denver Nuggets Bench

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 3, 2025 44:32


    On the latest Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn ranks the Denver Nuggets bench players by expected role in the regular season, breaks down some bench lineups he likes, and goes over the rest of the Western Conference and some moves other teams have made.

    Nuggets get aggressive, add Jonas Valanciunas, Tim Hardaway Jr.

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2025 38:45


    On the latest Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn reacts to the latest moves by the Denver Nuggets to sure up their bench unit, trading Dario Saric for Jonas Valanciunas and signing Tim Hardaway Jr. to a veteran minimum. Both are incredible deals for Denver and have suddenly turned Denver into a much deeper, more put-together roster. Is the 2026 NBA Title on the table?

    Michael Porter Jr. TRADED for Cam Johnson + Bruce Brown is back!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 1, 2025 41:45


    On the latest Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn reacts to an unreal trade made by the Denver Nuggets, sending out Michael Porter Jr. and a 2032 first round pick for Brooklyn Nets forward Cam Johnson. He discusses the deal and the flexibility it gives Denver, as well as the surprise signing of Bruce Brown to a one-year minimum contract. The Nuggets don't have to be done either. They can keep making moves. The question is, will they?

    LeBron James, Russell Westbrook, Cam Whitmore, and a final Free Agency Preview

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 30, 2025 43:23


    On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn breaks down the latest news and rumors surrounding the Denver Nuggets. From LeBron James subtly calling for a trade, to Russell Westbrook rumors, and a new trade rumor for the Nuggets involving Houston Rockets wing Cam Whitmore.

    Denver Nuggets expecting MINOR additions in Free Agency and NO Trades

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 27, 2025 39:39


    Ryan Blackburn breaks down a quiet NBA Draft night and the consistent messaging of a quiet offseason from the new Denver Nuggets front office, emphasized by focusing on Free Agency in the coming days rather than trades.

    NBA Draft: Denver Nuggets SILENT in Round 1 with no picks

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 26, 2025 33:51


    Ryan Blackburn breaks down a quiet night from inside Ball Arena during the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft. Around the league, there were some interesting moves but very little player movement. Ryan discusses the draft and whether the Nuggets will get involved tonight.

    Getting to Know NEW Denver Nuggets Front Office + Top 25 Free Agents

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2025 47:54


    Ryan Blackburn shares his thoughts and insights from the Denver Nuggets Introductory presser for new decision makers in Jon Wallace and Ben Tenzer. He also discusses Josh Kroenke's candid words on the front office structure, the second apron, Nikola Jokic, and more. Finally, Ryan breaks down his list of the Top 25 NBA Free Agents the Nuggets should target this offseason.

    Thunder win Finals, KD Traded, Dario Saric OPTS IN

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2025 37:07


    Ryan Blackburn shares thoughts on OKC winning the championship, the Kevin Durant trade, and how the Nuggets offseason is impacted by Dario Saric opting into his player option.

    NBA Draft Prep for a Nuggets team with no draft picks

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2025 33:02


    Ryan Blackburn shares thoughts on the 2025 NBA Draft, how the Denver Nuggets can get involved, and other teams he's watching closely leading up to draft night.

    Can the Nuggets Catch the Thunder next year?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2025 43:44


    Ryan Blackburn shares his Western Conference tiers before the NBA Draft and Free Agency and explains how the Denver Nuggets might be the second best team in the conference. Then, he asks the impossible question: how can the Nuggets keep up with the Thunder next time these two teams meet in the playoffs?

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