Carmelo Anthony to Lead Denver Nuggets to Western Conference Title

As the 2005-06 NBA season fast approaches, there is one question that comes to mind.   Who will win the Western Conference?  The West has been coveted as the stronger half of the NBA for years.  Discussion usually revolves around a few elite teams, including the dramatic Lakers, the champion Spurs, or even the talented yet troubled Timberwolves.  One team that is often overlooked in the headlines is the Denver Nuggets.  Now, a couple of years ago this silent treatment was justifiable as the Nuggets closed out their embarassing season with a whopping 17 wins.  But then something happened.  Melo happened.  With the addition of rookie Carmelo Anthony to the roster, along with several other key acquisitions by Kiki Vandeweghe, a new team was born and they've been growing ever since.  With injuries finally under control and Anthony to lead the way, the Nuggets are definitely the team to beat this year.  
  
In order to preview this year's Nuggets team, you have to first look back.  This is because all the key players are the same as they were last year with one distinct difference---health.  Voshon Lenard was sidelined practically the entire season after tearing his achilles tendon in an early matchup against the Lakers.  These days, after making a full recovery, Lenard is already looking exceptional in practice, rarely missing a shot.  Kenyon Martin was supposed to be the missing link last season, but instead he was plagued with an ongoing knee injury.  After undergoing arthroscopic surgery in the off-season, he feels better than he has in years.  This year Nuggets fans will finally see what the real K-Mart is all about.  Finally, if Marcus Camby can withstand the wear and tear of being bumped and bruised inside the lane, his ongoing presence will make the Nuggets unstoppable.  As the most underrated center in the NBA, his rebounding totals and unbelievable blocking capacity are enough to intimidate even the strongest opponents.
  
There are several other key players that will be involved in making this season's team a success.  Crowd favorite Earl Boykins always comes off the bench with a burst of energy.  The same goes for Eduardo Najera, who also provides his expertise on the defensive end.  Nene adds an element of depth to the forward position.  Coach Karl will likely use him to interchangeably come in for Martin or Camby, thus ensuring a fresh front court at all times.  Look for DerMarr Johnson to have a break out season this year.  He may have to battle for playing time, but when he is on the court he is a solid shooter with tremendous athletic ability and the Nuggets hope to see him fulfill his potential this season.  With the addition of point guard Earl Watson to the roster, look for Andre Miller to see more time at the two guard position, which allows him the chance to boost his scoring totals.  With all this said, who knows what rookie Julius Hodge could add to the mix.  He will gladly welcome any playing time Coach Karl gives.
  
Perhaps the most instrumental player in the Nuggets quest for a championship is Carmelo Anthony.  For two years, he has been overshadowed by Lebron James, even though he led his once pitiful to team to the playoffs two years in a row.  This year, Melo has an outstanding supporting cast and he himself will be back better than ever.  In the offseason, he has lost 20 pounds and has been working out relentlessly to get in prime shape for this season.  He has also been getting in shape mentally.  After being bombarded last season with negative headlines regarding personal issues in his life, he comes back with something to prove to his doubters.  Anthony has always been a winner, and now with a solid team behind him, along with Coach Karl leading the way, this may be a very special year for the Denver Nuggets.