Golden Nuggets (High Win Rate)
Imagine winning in the NBA without shooting threes. The three-point shot has revolutionized the game, but what has also emerged is another perspective of the game that requires an eclectic skill set—a multiple-time MVP and NBA Champion big man with a diverse array of skills.
The Denver Nuggets’ 2024-25 season showcases a unique approach to NBA success, emphasizing speedy and efficiency over reliance on three-point shooting. Despite the league’s three-point revolution, the Nuggets rank last in three-point attempts (31.1 per game) and percentage (38.5%) but excel in efficiency elsewhere, leading the league in field goal percentage (50.1%) and ranking 3rd in true shooting percentage (59.9).
Statistically, this approach is hedges a three-point-heavy strategy due to their league-leading field goal percentage (50.1%) and 3rd place true shooting percentage (59.9%). The Denver Nuggets compensate for their low three-point attempts by focusing on efficient, high-percentage shots, primarily inside the arc.
In contrast, teams with high three-point attempts, like the Celtics (49.0 attempts at 42.8%) or Warriors (46.8 attempts at 40.1%), rely on volume and lower accuracy to maximize scoring.
When you combine a high field goal percentage with fast-break points per game (the Nuggets rank 1st in the NBA, averaging 19.6 fast-break points per game), you are scaling your efficiency at speed.
Lesson: A high win rate at a fast pace can compensate for taking long shots.