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Billups proves to be a golden Nugget

Point guard invaluable in helping Denver exceed expectations

Image: Chauncey BillupsGetty Images
Chauncey Billups (#7) has bought to the Nuggets a more disciplined style of play, writes Steve Jones of NBCSports.com.

Defense – or the lack of it – has been an issue with the Nuggets in previous seasons. Last year Denver allowed 107 points per game, second worst in the league to the Warriors. But this season, it’s an area of significant improvement. The Nuggets have bought into Karl’s persistent preaching that they must defend better, and they are. At the All-Star break, Denver was surrendering 99.9 points per game.

A team’s defensive attitude is predicated on its offensive generosity. If every member of a team is not committed to sharing the ball on offense, don’t expect much from its defense. Billups makes sure his teammates get touches, and that in turn, has produced a better defensive attitude and effort among the Nuggets.

Ever since the Nuggets gave up Andre Miller to get Iverson from Philadelphia in December of 2006, they have needed a point guard who would be able to bring out the best in their team. Karl tried rotating Iverson between point guard and shooting guard, but then turned to Anthony Carter to run things. Now he has his answer in Billups.

The 12-year veteran has been through a lot of tough situations, and so by his play, he shows the Nuggets how to persevere when the rough spots hit. It doesn’t hurt his popularity that he is a Denver native, former Colorado star, and in his second tour of duty with the Nuggets.

Denver didn’t envision Billups making the difference he has made, but maybe it should have since he provides the kind of leadership that catapults teams to play their best. Just think of where the Nuggets would be without him.

Steve Jones writes regularly for NBCSports.com. He played professionally in both the National Basketball Association and the American Basketball Association.


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