As he was walking off the Nuggets’ practice court, the veteran had every reason to emphasize his excitement ahead of Saturday’s Game 1 vs. Golden State.
The last few playoffs have been torturous for Barton. During the 2018-19 campaign, Barton’s season was derailed by core surgery. When he returned, he felt like he was playing catchup. Barton wasn’t quite right entering the postseason, and he got benched midway through the San Antonio series. “It entered my mind for me to just go out there and leave it all on the court, play hard, knowing that I’m fortunate this year to have good health and be able to play when that wasn’t always the case,” he said. “I just want to take advantage of it and don’t take it for granted.”
“We need Will,” Malone said. “… I’m excited that he finally has a chance to be healthy going into the playoffs.”