Pickaxe and Roll

Ryan Blackburn and Gordon Gross, senior writer for Denver Stiffs, break down the Denver Nuggets 2022 NBA Draft picks: Christian Braun, Peyton Watson, and Ismael Kamagate (as well as Collin Gillespie on a two-way contract). They discuss what they liked and didn't like about the way the Nuggets handled draft night. Then, they went through scouting reports on each of the new additions and what Nuggets fans can expect to see now and going forward.

Ryan Blackburn and Brendan Vogt, DNVR Nuggets connoisseur, shares their final thoughts on the 2022 NBA Draft before it happens and how it will affect the Nuggets. They also discuss the big NBA rumors and what they're excited to watch in free agency. Then, they talk about the evolution of fandom and local media and how it's affecting basketball coverage.

Ryan Blackburn shares his thoughts on MarJon Beauchamp and Trevion Williams after both attended a pre-draft workout with the Nuggets on Monday. Beauchamp reportedly impressed the Nuggets and appears to be a great fit. Ryan shares his top five Nuggets draft prospects before discussing some of the more interesting NBA rumors out there.

Ryan Blackburn discusses some of the news and notes around the Denver Nuggets, from Nikola Jokić committing to the Serbian National Team for EuroBasket to trade rumors for Monte Morris, Will Barton, and Denver's draft picks. Then, Ryan makes his official Nuggets draft night predictions, including the player Denver will acquire to be next season's starter at shooting guard.

Ryan Blackburn brings on CrownHoops contributor and Nuggets Draft Twitter veteran CTFazio24 to discuss the Denver Nuggets acquiring the 30th pick and what it means for the off-season. They go in-depth on several prospects that they like and dislike. Then, they play "Let's Make a Deal!" where CT has to choose between three doors, behind which lay completely different Nuggets off-season draft, free agency, and trade scenarios.

Ryan Blackburn breaks down the trade the Denver Nuggets made today with the Oklahoma City Thunder, sending JaMychal Green and a future first rounder to OKC for the 30th pick and two second rounders. Was this a good trade? What does it mean for the Nuggets going forward? Ryan breaks it all down, from big picture discussions to financial considerations and everything in between.

Ryan Blackburn discusses the news that Ryan Saunders, former Minnesota Timberwolves head coach, will be joining Michael Malone's coaching staff. Then, he goes through the mailbag, answering as many questions about the NBA Draft, free agency, and trades as an hour of time permits. He also makes a prediction of who Denver's starting shooting guard will be when it's all said and done.

Ryan Blackburn discusses the 2022 NBA Draft in-depth, sharing his perspective on the prospects at the top and some unique lottery talents. He also breaks down the most overrated and underrated prospects in the class, along with the players the experts see the Denver Nuggets selecting 21st overall. Finally, Ryan shares his thoughts on the entertaining basketball movie 'Hustle' with Adam Sandler and Juancho Hernangomez.

Ryan Blackburn brings on Aniello Piro, digital media manager of Mile High Sports, to discuss the growth of MHS and adapting to new practices in sports media. Then, they touch on the Colorado Avalanche and Denver Broncos before discussing the Nuggets and the level of attention and care they've received from the city and from ownership.

Ryan Blackburn shares his thoughts on the NBA Finals between the Boston Celtics and Golden State Warriors, including how the Denver Nuggets can learn from the successes of each team. Then, Ryan discusses Denver's financial issues and why he expects cost cutting moves to be on the horizon, despite Nuggets officials arguing otherwise.

Ryan Blackburn shares his thoughts on Friday's press conference held by Denver Nuggets governor Josh Kroenke, who answered questions about the departure of Tim Connelly, the arrival of Calvin Booth, the Altitude TV dispute with Comcast, and much more. Should Nuggets fans accept these answers and move on? Should Nuggets fans still be upset? Ryan weighs in.

Ryan Blackburn discusses his major career move, stepping down as site manager of Denver Stiffs to become the full-time Denver Nuggets analyst at Mile High Sports. He shares what his role will look like before sharing additional thoughts on his first piece about the Nuggets defense. Finally, Ryan conducts a short preview of the NBA Finals between the Golden State Warriors and the Boston Celtics.

Ryan Blackburn and Gordon Gross, senior writer for Denver Stiffs, share their updated perspectives on how new Denver Nuggets lead decision maker Clavin Booth will likely approach the free agency and trade markets in July. Which Nuggets free agents are in the team's plans for next season? How much flexibility do the Nuggets have to upgrade their roster? Where will they prioritize upgrading the most?

Ryan Blackburn and Gordon Gross, senior writer for Denver Stiffs, discuss the Denver Nuggets in a two-part podcast beginning with Nuggets ownership. Is KSE all the way bought into a Nuggets championship? Will they get to that point? Then, they discuss Calvin Booth and how his NBA Draft philosophy may differ from Tim Connelly, as well as some draft prospects the Nuggets will likely target as a result.

Ryan Blackburn reacts to Tim Connelly deciding to go to the Minnesota Timberwolves to become their new President of Basketball Operations, including where the biggest differences were in Denver's counteroffer. Then, Ryan discusses where Tim Connelly's absence will be felt the most as the Nuggets enter their most important off-season in franchise history. Is Calvin Booth ready to step into the leadership role?

Ryan Blackburn shares updated thoughts on the Tim Connelly waiting game being played by the Minnesota Timberwolves and Denver Nuggets. Then, he turns his attention to the NBA Draft and who Nuggets FANS want the Nuggets to take at 21st overall. From Nikola Jovic to Marjon Beauchamp, nearly 40 names were listed. Finally, Ryan discusses the Golden State Warriors making the rest of the West look foolish.

Ryan Blackburn discusses the news that the Minnesota Timberwolves are attempting to hire Tim Connelly, Denver Nuggets President of Basketball Operations, away from Denver. Then, Ryan discusses the loss of Jordi Fernandez, Nuggets assistant coach, to the Sacramento Kings. Finally, Bones Hyland made the All-Rookie team! A fun thing to discuss in the midst of some potentially difficult front office and coaching staff changes.

Ryan Blackburn breaks down the NBA Draft Lottery results as the Orlando Magic win the lottery and will select first overall in the 2022 NBA Draft. Ryan talks about the top teams and the top prospects before pivoting to the Nuggets and the initial players profiled at Denver Stiffs. Finally, Ryan discusses how important it is for the Nuggets to see the floor at a high level going forward to become a championship caliber team.

Ryan Blackburn discusses the Game 7 (and 6) losses by the Milwaukee Bucks, Phoenix Suns, and Philadelphia 76ers. MVP narratives are up in flames as Giannis, Embiid, and Booker have all been eliminated from playoff contention just one round after the Denver Nuggets. Ryan shares his thoughts on where those teams were lacking, the traits and styles that define the final four teams, and what mental toughness really looks like in the NBA.

Ryan Blackburn and Jake Coyne (@BroncoSquatch on Twitter) discuss the Denver Nuggets off-season goals and limitations heading into the draft and free agency. Then, they go through an extensive list of trade and free agency targets to revamp the starting lineup and/or improve the bench rotation. Names like Lu Dort and De'Anthony Melton are discussed, but also outside of the box options like Malcolm Brogdon, Amir Coffey, and Victor Oladipo.

Ryan Blackburn breaks down big man rotation in the final 'Season in Review' episode of the 2021-22 season, discussing Nikola Jokić, JaMychal Green, and DeMarcus Cousins in depth. Jokić clearly held up his end of the bargain this season, but the Nuggets still fell short. They also struggled to fill the backup center position until Cousins was signed mid-season. Is he next year's solution as well? Or do the Nuggets decide to change things up again?

Ryan Blackburn discusses the news from Monday morning that Nikola Jokić will be the MVP of the 2021-22 NBA season, laughing at those that think he isn't deserving. Ryan then discusses where Jokić can still improve as a player and leader for the Nuggets in their quest for a title going forward. Finally, where does Jokić rank among the NBA greats now that he's just the 13th back-to-back MVP winner in NBA history?

Ryan Blackburn shares his thoughts on the Denver Nuggets forward rotation and how they performed during the 2021-22 season. Michael Porter Jr. missed the vast majority of the season, so Aaron Gordon and Jeff Green assumed larger roles, while Zeke Nnaji and Vlatko Cancar had opportunities to show what they can do. Were the forwards successful this year? Where must they be better? Does a healthy MPJ solve all of Denver's issues?

Ryan Blackburn shares his thoughts on the end-of-season press conferences of Michael Malone and Calvin Booth setting a tone of immediate pressure on the Denver Nuggets to do everything they can to win a title. Then, Ryan spends some time reacting to fake trades proposed by Nuggets fans by mostly saying that the trade ideas aren't realistic. Although, some of them might be really good!

Ryan Blackburn breaks down the Denver Nuggets wing rotation from the 2021-22 season. From Will Barton and Austin Rivers to Bryn Forbes and Davon Reed, where did the Nuggets wings excel? Where do they need to improve? Do the Nuggets need a wing upgrade this off-season? Yes, yes they do, especially on the defensive end. Ryan breaks down the seasons of each player and where the unit must improve as a whole.

Ryan Blackburn shares his thoughts on the end-of-season pressers for Michael Porter Jr., Jamal Murray, and Tim Connelly before breaking down the seasons of Denver's guard rotation. Separated into guards, wings, forwards, and bigs, Ryan evaluates the guards first, based on the roles they had and how successful they were. From Monte Morris and Facu Campazzo to Bones Hyland and Markus Howard, Ryan discusses where the guard rotation must improve to become championship caliber.

Ryan Blackburn and Gage Bridgford, lead writer at Denver Stiffs, break down the Denver Nuggets 2021-22 season through the lens of end-of-season takeaways. What were the most definitive moments of Denver's season? What did the Nuggets learn in an injury-riddled season? Ryan and Gage discuss several season and roster takeaways and how they will help the Nuggets improve in the years to come.

Ryan Blackburn recaps the Denver Nuggets 102-98 loss to the Golden State Warriors in Game 5 as the Nuggets were eliminated from the playoffs. Nikola Jokić and the Nuggets put in a great effort and were locked in, but they just didn't have enough at the end to outpace the Warriors. Ryan discusses the game, learning from the playoff series, and takeaways from the season as a whole. Was it a success or failure? Does it have to be one or the other?

Ryan Blackburn shares his thoughts on the Denver Nuggets and Golden State Warriors, including the adjustments both teams are set to make as the series moves back to San Francisco. Then, Ryan discusses the mentality shift Nuggets fans (and NBA fans) had as soon as Denver won Game 4 to avoid the sweep. Finally, he talks about the teams that are actually down bad right now after an eventful last few days in the NBA, from the Brooklyn Nets to the Utah Jazz.

Ryan Blackburn recaps the Denver Nuggets 126-121 Game 4 win over the Golden State Warriors as the Nuggets avoid the sweep on their home court. Nikola Jokić was fantastic today. Monte Morris hit five three-pointers in a quarter. Austin Rivers had five steals. Bones hit some shots from the Hylands, and Will Barton hit the biggest shot of the game. Ryan discusses the game, "foxhole" guys, and mentally preparing for a Game 5 on the road with everything on the line.

Ryan Blackburn shares his thoughts on the Denver Nuggets as they are down 3-0 in their playoff series against the Golden State Warriors. Will they play with pride and intensity in Game 4 amid a likely exit? Was this season always about playing with pride? Then, Ryan shares his thoughts on the playoff landscape and which teams can win a title this year, as well as what the Nuggets are missing to become a title contender again.

Ryan Blackburn recaps the Denver Nuggets 118-113 Game 3 loss to the Golden State Warriors as the Nuggets battle incredibly hard for 45 minutes only to watch the lead slip away in the final three. Nikola Jokić was unbelievable, and Aaron Gordon showed up in a big way. Unfortunately, the Nuggets couldn't get enough stops to earn the victory and go down 3-0 in the series. Ryan discusses the big takeaways, the poor execution at the end of the game, and the difficulty of taking a moral victory down 3-0 in a playoff series.

Ryan Blackburn shares his thoughts on the Denver Nuggets and their approach to Game 3 against the Golden State Warriors. Will they change up the starting lineup? Can they match up with the Warriors' small ball lineup in a better way? Which players are in line for more playing time? Then, Ryan discusses the angst among the team and the parallels between Game 2 this year and Game 3 against the Utah Jazz in the bubble. Can Denver regain their composure?

Ryan Blackburn takes the Denver Nuggets off day to discuss the narratives surrounding Michael Malone, Tim Connelly, and Denver Nuggets management. They don't deserve to shoulder as much of the blame as Nuggets fans seem to believe they do. Ryan discusses why, as well as the concept of competitive advantage and how the Nuggets ownership has to be better about supporting the team on the margins going forward.

Ryan Blackburn recaps Game 2 as the Denver Nuggets lose 126-106 to the Golden State Warriors, dropping to 0-2 in the series. Nikola Jokić lost his battle with Draymond Green once again and was ejected in the fourth quarter after multiple frustration technicals. No other Nugget scored more than 12 points, and the Nuggets simply didn't have the firepower to keep up. Ryan discusses the game, the rotations, Denver's ongoing chances, and why the Nuggets may be forced to bow out quickly.

Ryan Blackburn recaps the Denver Nuggets 123-107 loss to the Golden State Warriors to fall to 0-1 in the first round series. Nikola Jokić wasn't at his best on either end of the floor, and the Nuggets perimeter defense left him out to dry on just as many occasions. DeMarcus Cousins was ejected in the fourth quarter as well. Ryan discusses what went wrong offensively and defensively, what the Nuggets can (and can't) do to respond, and whether the series is futile or not.

Ryan Blackburn discusses the final injury report for the Denver Nuggets as they prepare for Saturday's Game 1 against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center. Ryan breaks down the projected rotation, key decisions for Steve Kerr and Michael Malone, and laments the optionality of the Warriors. Then, Ryan asks the existential questions facing the Nuggets and Nuggets fans these playoffs before discussing Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. one last time (until they play again).

Ryan Blackburn brings on Brady Klopfer of Golden State of Mind to break down the Golden State Warriors. What the biggest strengths and weaknesses of the Warriors are, how they will handle the Nikola Jokić matchup, the actual health of Stephen Curry, and much more. They also discuss the Nuggets and their rotation before making bold predictions on the series and picking a winner.

Ryan Blackburn brings on Gordon Gross, senior writer at Denver Stiffs, to discuss a variety of Denver Nuggets topics. First, they cover Nikola Jokić and what appears to be an impending MVP on the way. Next, they cover Bones Hyland and the joy he has brought to the Nuggets in favor of a perimeter defense option. Finally, they discuss Nuggets vs Golden State Warriors and Steph Curry's injury status before Game 1.

Ryan Blackburn breaks down the impending playoff series between the Denver Nuggets and Golden State Warriors by the numbers, discussing a variety of factors from the regular season that impact the outcome of this matchup. Draymond Green didn't play in any of the games, but the Nuggets won three out of four. From clutch ratings, to shooting data, to the most important play types, Ryan shares his thoughts on the series through a statistical lens and why the numbers matter.

Ryan Blackburn briefly recaps the Denver Nuggets 146-141 overtime loss to the Los Angeles Lakers in the final game of the regular season as Denver sat their starters, Austin Reaves and Malik Monk went off, and Facu Campazzo got ejected. Then, Ryan reflects on the regular season's ups and downs before asking initial questions about the Golden State Warriors, Denver's first round playoff opponent.

Ryan Blackburn recaps the Denver Nuggets 122-109 win as Nikola Jokić makes history, becoming the first player to ever accumulate 2,000 points, 1,000 rebounds, and 500 assists in a single season. Jokić was unbelievable, playing in a headband after bleeding profusely from the head in the first quarter. Ryan shares his experience in Ball Arena, what the record means, and what it means that the Nuggets get to sit back and relax for the first time all year.

Ryan Blackburn discusses the injury report today that saw no major changes for any of the Denver Nuggets stars, from the nuances of injury reporting to the idea that better things are still ahead for the Nuggets. Then, Ryan talks about how several fan bases around the NBA would trade their situations for Denver's in a heartbeat, including the Loss Angeles Lakers. Finally, Ryan discusses the games over the weekend and the likely impending playoff series against either the Dallas Mavericks or Golden State Warriors.

Ryan Blackburn recaps the Denver Nuggets 116-97 loss to the San Antonio Spurs as the Nuggets miss an opportunity to clinch a playoff spot. Nikola Jokić was going hard offensively but struggled despite scoring 41 points. Not enough players showed up around him, and the Nuggets once again proved incapable of playing defense on their home court. Ryan discusses why, as well as whether the magic will return to Ball Arena before the year is up.

Ryan Blackburn recaps the Denver Nuggets 129-118 win over the Los Angeles Lakers as Nikola Jokić once again has a monster game with 38 points, 18 rebounds, and 6 assists while out-dueling Anthony Davis down the stretch. Aaron Gordon stepped up in the first half, and Will Barton stepped up in the second half, hitting some massive threes to seal the game for Denver. Ryan discusses the starters, the bench, and what this game means for the playoff race.

Ryan Blackburn reacts to the Denver Nuggets 136-130 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves as Denver simply couldn't match Minnesota's level of execution for 48 minutes. Nikola Jokić tried his best, but several players simply didn't show up or were active negatives when Denver needed them most. Ryan discusses the starters, the bench, and what this loss means to the Nuggets in the standings and going forward.

Ryan Blackburn and Kyle Theige, site manager of Canis Hoopus, discuss the growth of the Minnesota Timberwolves to become a playoff caliber team in the Western Conference. From Karl-Anthony Towns, to Anthony Edwards, to head coach Chris Finch, these T'Wolves are not the T'Wolves of years past. Ryan and Kyle breaking down the T'Wolves and the Denver Nuggets, the importance of playoff seeding this year, and Friday's matchup between the two teams being the biggest game of the year.

Ryan Blackburn recaps the Denver Nuggets 125-118 win over the Indiana Pacers with a special emphasis on blowing another big first half lead. Nikola Jokić saved the day with his dominance, and Bones Hyland gave him a major assist down the stretch, but the entire team still has major work to do. Ryan discusses what went wrong with both the starting and bench units and why the Nuggets are failing their playoff checklist despite winning games to close the regular season.

Ryan Blackburn and Jena Garcia, social media director of Denver Stiffs, break down the Denver Nuggets 113-109 win over the Charlotte Hornets. They discuss Nikola Jokić's big game, Aaron Gordon's aggressive start, Will Barton's up and down play, and a bad performance from the bench. Then, they discuss what's next for the Nuggets, including Friday's matchup against Minnesota, Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr., Nikola Jokić's MVP chances, and more.

Ryan Blackburn discusses the Denver Nuggets seeding and playoff scenarios as the playoff race begins to take shape. With the Golden State Warriors in free fall and the Nuggets and Minnesota Timberwolves battling to stay out of the play-in, the middle of the West playoff field as a chance to get really weird. Ryan details all of the scenarios, what the Nuggets have to do to avoid the chaos, and predicts what will happen now and in the playoffs.

Ryan Blackburn recaps the Denver Nuggets 113-107 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder as Nikola Jokić puts together a masterful performance with 35 points on 13-of-15 from the field. Will Barton and Aaron Gordon put their own stamps on the game, while Monte Morris had the key sequence to close the deal. Ryan discusses the starters, an uninspiring bench performance, and another Jokić appreciation segment as he continues to excel.