Nuggets look to end their losing streak against Raptors

The nuggets looked rough. Not only did they lose to the Oklahoma City Thunder – a largely forgivable loss – but they also lost to the Los Angeles Clippers. This loss was less forgivable. Even though Nikola Jokic looked like the prime Dirk Nowitzki, draining seven three-pointers and scoring a total of 41 points, they couldn't overcome that deficit. A lot of Nuggets fans are panicking – and I don't blame them. The starting lineup of Jamal Murray, Christian Braun, Michael Porter Jr, Aaron Gordon and Nikola Jokic was fine – at least from a statistical perspective. These five had a net rating of +15.4 in the first two games, and while things weren't perfect – far from it – there's at least some reason to be optimistic. The real problem lies with the bank.

In the 44 possessions without Nikola Jokic on the field, the Nuggets have a net rating of -43.3. I don't think it will last the whole season. This is a very small sample size and would be one of the worst units always. However, it's clear that the Nuggets have far more issues to address early in the season than initially anticipated. The Raptors luckily looked about as bad as the Nuggets. They are 1-2, Scottie Barnes is averaging just 18 points on 45/12/79 splits. They are vulnerable, but so are the Nuggets. Whoever wants more will win.

The essentials

WHO: Denver Nuggets (0-2) vs. Toronto Raptors (1-2)

When: 5:30 PM MDT

Where: Scotiabank Arena, Toronto, Canada.

How to watch/listen: Fubo, Altitude, Altitude 92.5 FM, League Pass, Jack Sparrowing It or sneak through the border, distract the Canadian Border Patrol by singing “Oh, Canada,” then make your way to Toronto and convince a friendly Canadian Taking her to the game.

Rivals Blog: Raptors Republic

Injury report: DaRon Holmes II – Out (Achilles); Ja'Kobe Walter – Out (Shoulder), Bruce Brown – Out (Knee), Immanuel Quickley – Out (Pelvis), Kelly Olynyk – Out (Back), RJ Barrett – Questionable (Shoulder)

The three things

What you should pay attention to: The wing amalgam

The collective of Christian Braun and Julian Strawther looked good at the start of the season. Christian Braun has scored 13.5 points per game on 57% from the field in the first two contests. Even though he only shot 25% from 3, he found ways to make it work. He has looked much better at the rim than he did last season and still plays excellent defense. Strawther, on the other hand, made a very poor impression defensively. However, he averages 7 points per game on 54/50 splits. So he has a lot to offer this season. These two have been some of the Nuggets' most entertaining players this season, so keep them in mind.

Here's what you should remember: Everything will be okay… Probably

We're only two games into the season and I've seen people talking about a possible play-in finish for the Nuggets. It's understandable that people are overreacting because the Nuggets honestly looked terrible. However, it is still early in the season. They integrate more people than they are used to and in the end they have Nikola Jokic. He will win your games. MPJ won't shoot like Jusuf Nurkic forever, he'll get there eventually. Murray had a bit of a comeback game against the Clippers. The Nuggets will still be good.

What you should bet on: The Nuggets play basketball!

You can be sure that basketball will be played! There will be hijinx! There will be baskets! There will be shenanigans and chicanery! Although Gordon or Zach would normally have a real attraction to you, at the end of the day, I'm not 21 yet. That's why I can't bet on sports in the state of Colorado! That's why I don't think it's right to tell you something when I couldn't even follow the advice. Nikola Jokic overs probably a safe bet? Enjoy the game.

The return of the Nuggets season also means the return of Stiffs Night Out at #38 in Rino! Join us on November 8th to watch the Nuggets take on the Miami Heat. There are live podcasts, prize draws, drink specials, great food and the best Nuggets fans in town! Number 38 offers a wide selection of beers as well as numerous other drink options. The meeting point is at 7:00 p.m. and there is enough space for everyone. However, come early to get the best seats on the terrace (weather permitting). I can't wait to see everyone there at 3560 Chestnut Pl.