Blazers, Nuggets Announce Starting Lineups for Friday NBA Cup Game

Denver, meanwhile, is set to start its revamped starting lineup of point guard Jamal Murray, shooting guard Christian Braun, small forward Cameron Johnson, power forward Aaron Gordon, and three-time MVP center Nikola Jokic.

Murray and Johnson were hardly sure things. Per the Nuggets, Murray had been dealing with a tight left calf while Johnson was struggling through an inflamed right shoulder.

It's a formidable group, made all the more intimidating by the Nuggets' revamped depth behind the starters. Free agent signings Bruce Brown and Tim Hardaway Jr. and trade acquisition Jonas Valanciunas will add some veteran seasoning to a group also comprising young backups Peyton Watson and Julian Strawther.

Interestingly, both the Trail Blazers and Nuggets could boast some first-time All-Stars this season, depending on their records. Should Portland be hovering around a .500 pace in time for All-Star voting, one of the team's top two young forwards — Avdija, the offensive star, or Camara, the defensive star — could find themselves in the conversation for their debut appearance.

Conversely, Gordon and Murray could at last be honored if Denver boasts a top-two or -three record in the conference and they're healthy.

The League's Toughest NBA Cup Bracket?

Portland and Denver both occupy West Group C, along with the Golden State Warriors, Houston Rockets, and San Antonio Spurs.

It's handily the most competitive bracket of the tournament. All four of the Trail Blazers' rivals are loaded with All-Star talent and angling for deep playoff runs.

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