ESPN’s latest projections reveal surprising truth about Nuggets’ West standing

ESPN’s Basketball Power Index projects the Denver Nuggets as the third-best team in the Western Conference, trailing only the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs. Denver ranks seventh overall in the league with a projected 48.7 wins and boasts an NBA-best offensive BPI of 4.1. The index gives the Nuggets a 96.9% chance of reaching the playoffs, placing them ahead of conference rivals including the Minnesota Timberwolves, Houston Rockets, and Los Angeles Lakers.

According to the BPI, Denver holds a 3.4% chance to win the championship, trailing West favorites Oklahoma City and San Antonio. Writer Ben Handler argues that despite concerns regarding roster depth, star aging, and a difficult conclusion to last season, ESPN's data indicates the Nuggets remain the safest bet in the Western Conference behind the top two contenders.