Nuggets' defense concerns threaten playoff hopes, says Malone

Coach Michael Malone of the Denver Nuggets has expressed concern over his team’s defensive performance. He stated that without significant improvements, the Nuggets might face a quick exit from the playoffs. Despite having one of the strongest offenses in the league, ranking third in points per game, their defense ranks low, allowing 116.7 points per game. Malone emphasized that if the team does not defend well for four quarters, they will struggle in the postseason. Meanwhile, the Miami Heat are facing their toughest stretch in years. They lost to the Knicks by 21 points, marking their eighth straight defeat. This is the longest losing streak for the team since Erik Spoelstra became head coach in 2008. Spoelstra admitted that he needs to help the team more and that they must work harder to improve. The Heat are now 10 games under .500 for the first time since 2017, and their recent performances have not shown signs of recovery. In contrast, Quentin Grimes of the Philadelphia 76ers is making his mark since joining the team. He scored a career-high 46 points and grabbed 13 rebounds in a recent overtime loss to the Rockets. Grimes has consistently scored over 30 points in five games since his trade. However, he acknowledged that a late turnover was crucial in the defeat, and he expressed a desire to improve in such situations.