Preseason Nuggets-Clippers showcased Denver’s upgraded depth with Valanunas, Cam Johnson, Bruce Brown, and Tim Hardaway Jr., allowing Jokic to rest more without sacrificing offense. Clippers answered with Chris Paul, John Collins, and Brook Lopez, creating a versatile two-big core alongside Kawhi Leonard and James Harden, who both look healthy. Cam Johnson and Christian Brown provided growth for Denver; the teams look primed for meaningful West contention as OKC looms, and the dialogue on zone defenses and high-low schemes sets the tone for early-season trendwatch.