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.
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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.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn discusses a recent report on the Denver Nuggets exploring trade options for Christian Braun, Aaron Gordon, and others ahead of NBA Free Agency. Ryan discusses what these trades could actually look like, makes some predictions, and discusses some draft options at 26. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn is joined by Swipa LIVE from Number Thirty-Eight to discuss the Denver Nuggets and the DREAM Offseason moves. They also share some thoughts on the changes at Altitude and play some games at the end of the episode. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn breaks down the later prime of Nikola Jokic ahead of his supermax extension in July. Ryan projects Jokic's regular season numbers and overall impact, including his comparison to all-time greats. Ryan discusses what the Nuggets need to do to help Jokic maximize this window. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn discusses the Denver Nuggets and their desire to be better than third or fourth place in the Western Conference. What can they do to change that? Is it worth possibly getting worse? Ryan also discusses the NBA draft for a bit before identifying some important NBA teams to watch this offseason. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn discusses an impressive NBA Finals Game 1 win for the New York Knicks over the San Antonio Spurs, as well as some similarities between the Knicks and Denver Nuggets. Can the Nuggets learn anything from the Knicks' Finals run? Is the Western Conference TOO difficult now? Ryan breaks it all down. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn does the 2025-26 season grades for Denver Nuggets centers. He discusses Nikola Jokic, Jonas Valanciunas, and Zeke Nnaji before breaking down what the Nuggets must do to build around Jokic for the rest of his career. Then, he discusses the NBA Finals between the San Antonio Spurs and New York Knicks. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn grades the Denver Nuggets power forward position that includes Aaron Gordon, Spencer Jones, and DaRon Holmes II. He discusses why Gordon matters so much for the Nuggets franchise and what the next six weeks will look like for the power forward spot in Denver. He also discusses Adam Silver and the NBA destroying dynasties. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn offers season grades for the Denver Nuggets small forward position. Cam Johnson and Peyton Watson each had good seasons, but are the Nuggets are making the wrong choice with who to keep in 2026-27? Ryan breaks it down and also discusses the NBA's new anti-tanking rules released today. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn breaks down the Denver Nuggets shooting guard position and assigns season grades to Christian Braun, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Julian Strawther. He goes over Denver's next steps at shooting guard and identifies some free agency and trade targets for the offseason. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn goes over the All-NBA awards for Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray. Then, Ryan breaks down the Denver Nuggets point guard position and why the Nuggets must find another playmaker they trust. Do Bruce Brown, Jalen Pickett, or Tyus Jones still fit the bill? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn discusses one of the Denver Nuggets' most important factors of the offseason: the free agency of Peyton Watson. Do the Nuggets retain the young small forward and make him a larger part of the team? What is the cost of that choice? Is betting on Peyton Watson the right call for Denver? Ryan breaks it down. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn reacts to an impressive Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals between the San Antonio Spurs and Oklahoma City Thunder. He discusses how the Denver Nuggets can match up with these teams, what traits they must add to the roster, and whether Denver's even capable of making those changes. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn discusses what the next five seasons of the Denver Nuggets are expected to look like and how quickly things can change positively or negatively. He discusses what it would look like for the team to trade Jamal Murray or Aaron Gordon emotionally, and whether the Nuggets are capable of being a great team again. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the 1,000th episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn celebrates an important milestone with special guests Zach Mikash, Jeff Morton, and Shawn Drotar. They discuss Ryan's journey, covering the Denver Nuggets, and much more. Ryan gives his thanks to several people, including the loyal listeners across many years of covering the hometown team. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn breaks down the Giannis Antetokounmpo trade discussion that just popped up, what he expects to happen, and how it impacts Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets now and going forward. He also discusses Denver's need for creativity in trades if that's the direction they go. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn and Danny Bailey go LIVE from Number Thirty-Eight to discuss Friday's Denver Nuggets end-of-season press conference. Josh Kroenke, David Adelman, Jon Wallace, and Ben Tenzer spoke to media about the present and future. Ryan and Danny discuss what Nuggets fans learned and where the Nuggets go from here. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn discusses what Denver Nuggets fans should be hoping to hear from an end-of-season press conference featuring the Nuggets braintrust. He also discusses what's next for the Nuggets on the defensive end and how they can get back to being a more well-rounded team. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn discusses the actual performance and costs of Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, and Aaron Gordon over the last several years in the playoffs. Will the Denver Nuggets keep their championship core together, or will high costs and playoff struggles open the door for changes? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn breaks down the expected decisions by the Denver Nuggets to retain David Adelman as head coach, to sign Nikola Jokic to an extension, and to explore trades for basically everyone else. Ryan goes over the financial situation, Denver's assets, and why picking a direction is difficult. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn discusses whether David Adelman will be back as Denver Nuggets head coach. He goes over the roster and which players he expects to return. He also breaks down the different pathways the Nuggets could use to evolve as a team from this point forward. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn breaks down the Denver Nuggets Game 6 loss to the undermanned Minnesota Timberwolves who played with more heart and hustle to close out the series. Nikola Jokic and Cam Johnson showed up on offense, but the Nuggets around them struggled on both sides. What's next for Denver after a brutal first round exit? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn breaks down what Denver Nuggets fans should expect heading into Game 6 vs the Minnesota Timberwolves tonight. He discusses the injuries Minnesota is now facing, a hostile road environment, and the keys to a Nuggets victory for Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn reacts to the Denver Nuggets Game 5 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves to prevent elimination. The Nuggets showed up at home with Nikola Jokic, Cam Johnson, and Spencer Jones leading the charge. Can they keep their season alive in these playoffs? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll LIVE from Number Thirty Eight, Ryan Blackburn goes over the Denver Nuggets second half collapse in Game 4 to go down 3-1 vs the Minnesota Timberwolves. Ryan discusses Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, Aaron Gordon, and more. Can Denver prevent elimination in Game 5 on Monday night? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn breaks down the Denver Nuggets blowout loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves in which the Nuggets appeared extremely ill prepared. Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray continued to struggle, while Rudy Gobert, Jaden McDaniels, and Ayo Dosunmu gave the Nuggets hell. Will the Nuggets recover the lost momentum? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn reacts to the Denver Nuggets 119-114 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves in which Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray ran out of gas and couldn't close out the game. The Nuggets got up big in the first quarter, but that set up the downfall in a major way. Ryan discusses the game flow, Jokic's poor outing, and why to expect a long series going forward. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn previews Monday night's Game 2 matchup between the Denver Nuggets and Minnesota Timberwolves, discussing changes the Timberwolves might make and how the Nuggets can take advantage. Who guards Nikola Jokic? Who plays more for Minnesota? Ryan also looks at the rest of the NBA playoff picture. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn is LIVE from number Thirty-Eight with Danny Bailey breaking down the Denver Nuggets Game 1 Playoff Win over the Minnesota Timberwolves. They discuss the slow start, Denver's defensive recovery, and great performances from Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic. Plus, they play: Overreaction or Expectation? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn and Jeff Morton preview the playoff series between the Denver Nuggets and Minnesota Timberwolves, asking seven big questions for the Nuggets and T'Wolves to answer during the round. They give their series predictions, then they discuss some recent shows they've been watching. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn breaks down the Denver Nuggets pathway to an NBA championship and why it will be exceptionally difficult but rewarding if they survive. He discusses Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, Nuggets and Minnesota Timberwolves lineups, and more. He also breaks down the NBA Play-In Tournament and what he's watching for this week. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn breaks down the Denver Nuggets improbable win in the final game of the season that shifts the entire Western Conference playoff landscape. He discusses the Nuggets staying at the 3 seed, awesome bench performances, and a preliminary look at the Minnesota Timberwolves first round playoff series. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn breaks down the Denver Nuggets decision to rest all starters vs the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Nuggets won anyway, but the decision was odd. Ryan discusses the win and good performances by Jonas Valanciunas, Julian Strawther, and David Roddy. He also discusses clinching a Top 4 seed and what's at stake on Sunday. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn reacts to the Denver Nuggets blowout win over the injured Memphis Grizzlies for their 10th win in a row, the most for the Nuggets in the Nikola Jokic era. He discusses the game, Jokic's triple-double, improved defense, and a nod to 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.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn breaks down the Denver Nuggets 137-132 OT win over the Portland Trail Blazers in which Aaron Gordon and Cam Johnson made big plays late. Nikola Jokic put up crazy numbers, and Ryan discusses how numb he's grown to Jokic's insane play. He also shares why a double-digit win streak would matter for this group. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn reacts to Michael Malone becoming the head coach at North Carolina (WHAT?!) in news that JUST broke. He then breaks down the Denver Nuggets 8-game winning streak - their longest of the season - and how the Nuggets have accomplished it. He discusses a pathway to the playoffs and the NBA Finals before discussing tonight's innocent game against the Portland Trail Blazers. What could go wrong? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn reacts to the Denver Nuggets incredible overtime win over the San Antonio Spurs. It was an epic battle between Nikola Jokic and Victor Wembanyama, but the Nuggets prevailed in the clutch in perhaps the best game in the NBA this season. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn breaks down the Denver Nuggets win over the Utah Jazz, their seventh in a row. Jamal Murray has stood out as an incredible contributor during this stretch, and his season is clearly worthy of All-NBA honors by the end of the year. Ryan discusses the win, the Nuggets up-and-down focus, and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn breaks down some important notes and quotes from practice today, including injury updates. Then he goes over the MVP race between Nikola Jokic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Victor Wembanyama, and Luka Doncic. Does Jokic have a strong enough case to win? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn breaks down the Denver Nuggets win over the Golden State Warriors in which they won 70-40 in the second half. Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray appear playoff ready. Are the rest of the Nuggets ready to meet the charge? Ryan discusses the Nuggets injuries, as well as the schedule for them and the rest of the Western Conference playoff squads. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll LIVE from Number Thirty-Eight, Ryan Blackburn and Danny Bailey break down the Denver Nuggets close win over the Utah Jazz. Jamal Murray set a big record, Nikola Jokic shined (offensively) and Tim Hardaway Jr. made huge shots in the fourth quarter to give the Nuggets life. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn discusses the Denver Nuggets win last night against the Dallas Mavericks. Jamal Murray scored 53 points, a new season high, while Nikola Jokic had 23 points, 21 rebounds, and 19 assists of his own. It wasn't a perfect game from the Nuggets, but it was a perfect night to celebrate an all-time great performance from one of the best duos in NBA history. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pickaxe and Roll, Ryan Blackburn discusses Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray taking over in the fourth quarter to beat the Phoenix Suns. There were still struggles, but the Denver Nuggets FINALLY got some good clutch luck. Ryan discusses the win, the bench stepping up, and a game tonight against the Dallas Mavericks. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.