Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

The defending NBA champion Denver Nuggets clinched the coveted No. 1 seed in the Western Conference following a decisive victory against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

This triumph not only asserted their dominance but also firmly placed their fate in their own hands for the remainder of the regular season.

With just two games left to play, the Nuggets’ trajectory seems undeniably favorable, making them formidable contenders as they vie for home-court advantage throughout the Western Conference Finals.

Such an advantage holds immense significance, particularly for a team of the Nuggets’ caliber.

Former NBA champion Paul Pierce voiced his unwavering confidence in the Nuggets’ prospects, describing them as a “Gorilla Glue lock” to advance to the NBA Finals.

Speaking on “Undisputed,” Pierce highlighted the Nuggets’ exceptional home record of 33-8, expressing skepticism that any opponent could overcome them at the formidable Ball Arena during the postseason.

Pierce further emphasized the pivotal role played by Nikola Jokic, asserting his current status as the league’s premier player and a frontrunner for the MVP title. Pierce underscored Jokic’s commanding presence on the court, noting his dominance even against formidable adversaries like Rudy Gobert, a leading candidate for Defensive Player of the Year.

The Nuggets’ distinctive style of play, coupled with the challenging altitude of Denver, creates a formidable combination that positions them favorably for a return to championship contention. Pierce’s analysis resonates with the enduring truth that the Nuggets remain a force to be reckoned with, having maintained their championship-caliber performance since clinching the NBA title a year prior.

Despite lingering doubts or underestimations from some quarters, the Nuggets’ resilience and Jokic’s unparalleled prowess continue to defy opposition.

Until proven otherwise, they stand as the team to beat, poised to reaffirm their status as NBA championship contenders.

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