Zeke Nnaji, who had been out of the rotation for much of the season and had scored more than two points in only three of the Denver Nuggets’ first 48 games, has recently flourished in a new role as the backup center over the past five weeks.
According to Durando of The Denver Post, Nnaji’s performance in Wednesday’s win over Sacramento highlighted his improvement, as he posted 10 points, three rebounds, and three blocks in just 19 minutes of play.
During the past 14 games, Nnaji has averaged 6.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks in 19.3 minutes per game, shooting an impressive .594 from the field, .440 from three-point range, and .625 from the free-throw line.
He has also posted a team-high +19.5 net rating in that stretch. His recent contributions have not gone unnoticed by his teammates, particularly Jamal Murray, who was quick to praise his efforts.
“Zeke didn’t play for a very long time, and as soon as he (was) implemented back in the lineup, he’s freaking hooping,” Murray said. “And not just putting the ball in the hoop. We don’t need him to just put the ball in the hoop. Dude is playing defense.
“He’s rebounding. He’s talking. He’s playing physical. He’s jumping. He’s blocking shots. He’s running the floor. He’s not complaining. I could go on.”
