Pickaxe Podcaster

Ryan Blackburn recaps the first Denver Nuggets preseason game of the season, a 112-101 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. This game was all about the returns of Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr., and they sure did look good in their first minutes in a long, long time. Ryan breaks down their returns, the starters and their chemistry, the bench rot…

Ryan Blackburn reacts to the news that Calvin Booth and several members of the Denver Nuggets front office are receiving contract extensions. Ryan also shares his final training camp takeaways from San Diego before previewing Denver's preseason schedule. Will Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. play on Monday night? Ryan shares the details.…

Ryan Blackburn breaks down Day 3 of Denver Nuggets training camp in San Diego, beginning with a shooting competition and ending with some great quotes from Nuggets players. First, Andre Miller spoke about his new job as head coach of the Grand Rapids Gold, the G League affiliate of the Nuggets. Ryan also shares what Jeff Green and Bruce Brown had t…

Ryan Blackburn breaks down the sights and sounds of Day 2 at Denver Nuggets training camp in San Diego. Michael Malone, Nikola Jokić, and Ish Smith all spoke to the media, and acai bowls were much enjoyed by everybody there. Ryan discusses the interviews, the details, the scrimmage, and much more.Av Mile High Sports

Ryan Blackburn shares his thoughts on the sights and sounds of Day 1 of Training Camp in San Diego. Michael Malone shared some interesting tidbits about Denver's approach to the season and Michael Porter Jr.'s expectations. Jamal Murray shared his progress toward on-court success. Christian Braun gave some insight into his experience as a rookie. R…

Ryan Blackburn reacts to the festivities of Monday's Media Day, from the returns of Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. to the proclamations of improved defense from Michael Malone. Ryan breaks down all of the major points and little tidbits from each player's availability before focusing in on the biggest training camp storylines for this week in …

Ryan Blackburn is joined by Asher Levy, lead writer at Denver Stiffs, to discuss his recent article about homophobia in the NBA and why actions taken by Anthony Edwards and Aaron Gordon were problematic. Then, they discuss Nuggets media day, react to the new Mile High City jerseys the Nuggets dropped on Thursday, and give their predictions on big s…

Ryan Blackburn discusses the ESPN (and CBS) top 100 player rankings list that emerged on Tuesday, which sparked plenty of controversy. The Denver Nuggets were snubbed, especially Jamal Murray, and Ryan shares his thoughts on why the Nuggets are so underrated at this stage. He then shares his own ranking as a comparison (just the highlights) before …

Ryan Blackburn shares his thoughts on the Denver Nuggets being one week away from media day and exactly one month away from their regular season debut. He also discusses Denver's offense and why they have a chance to become one of the most potent offensive teams of all-time with their current group. Then, Ryan prepares Nuggets fans for the eventual…

Ryan Blackburn goes through the mailbag to answer burning questions from Nuggets fans. Can the Nuggets get three 20+ point per game scorers next season? Could Bones win sixth man of the year? What are Denver's championship odds? All of those and more in a mega mailbag episode. But first, Ryan breaks down the Atlantic Division and the madness of tho…

Ryan Blackburn recaps the unfortunate loss the Serbian national team sustained in the Round of 16 to Italy behind an incredible shooting display from the Italians. Nikola Jokić was incredible offensively, but he didn't get enough help on either end of the floor. Ryan discusses the game, as well as his thoughts and concerns with Jokić after EuroBask…

Ryan Blackburn shares his thoughts on Nikola Jokić, Team Serbia, and how the elimination bracket in EuroBasket sets up for a difficult but rewarding road. Then, some thoughts on Denver's under-discussed players in the back half of the roster, including DeAndre Jordan and Christian Braun. Finally, Ryan rants a bit about Jamal Murray and how he needs…

Ryan Blackburn reacts to Serbia's two most recent wins at EuroBasket, including a masterpiece game from from Nikola Jokić against Israel. Ryan discusses Luka Dončić, Slovenia, and other contenders to win EuroBasket before transitioning to the Southwest Division and the future faces of the NBA. Then, Ryan shares thoughts on the backup small forward …

Ryan Blackburn shares his thoughts on the first two Serbia games in EuroBasket and how Nikola Jokić has performed thus far. Then, Ryan ranks the teams in the Western Conference based on how they match up with the Nuggets. Finally, who will be the best defensive player on the Nuggets this year? Ryan makes the case for Bruce Brown.…

Ryan Blackburn shares his thoughts on the Utah Jazz trading Donovan Mitchell to the Cleveland Cavaliers in an overarching conversation about the Central division. Have the Cavs caught Giannis and the Bucks in terms of talent level? Ryan also previews EuroBasket with Nikola Jokić and Serbia s the primary focus. Then, Ryan shares some thoughts about …

Ryan Blackburn shares his thoughts on the Denver Nuggets projected 2022-23 rotation, focusing on the projected minutes for each starter and primary backup. Ryan runs through general minute projections before looking at individual position battles. Could Bones play more minutes at point guard this season than Murray? Davon Reed vs Christian Braun? W…

Ryan Blackburn looks around at the entire league and the teams that are setting up for success or failure, even if they don't know it yet. Ryan shares the hot takes he truly believes about each team, some being hotter than others. From surprise trades to overrated players to crowning a 2022-23 NBA champion, Ryan discusses it all.…

Ryan Blackburn and Cameron Friend - aka 'SwipaCam' - break down a huge overtime win for the Serbian National Team against Greece as Nikola Jokić and Giannis Antetokounmpo put on an absolute show. Serbia's chances to qualify for the World Cup improve, and Ryan and Swipa talk about their impressions of the team and Jokić. Then, they talk about Jokić …

Ryan Blackburn breaks down the five teams in the Pacific Division: Golden State, LA Clippers, LA Lakers, Phoenix, and Sacramento. He discusses their offseason moves, which teams will be contenders, and how the Denver Nuggets match up with each team. Ryan also discusses why beating Pacific teams in the playoffs would be such strong vindication for t…

Ryan Blackburn breaks down the awesome first season from Bones Hyland and what he meant to the Denver Nuggets and their fans last season. Then, he projects what a second season from Bones could look like based on progression from recent second year players. Finally, Ryan ranks the Jamal Murray-Bones Hyland point guard rotation among all NBA teams i…

Ryan Blackburn and Harrison Faigen, editorial director for SB Nation, discussed what's going on with the Los Angeles Lakers. From the Westbrook disaster, to LeBron's extension, to Kyrie Irving rumors, they discuss whether it's fair for Lakers fans to feel any hope this year. They also discuss the Nuggets-Lakers matchups and the best games during "R…

Ryan Blackburn discusses the full release of the Denver Nuggets 2022-23 regular season schedule. From opening night against the Utah Jazz, to the most difficult parts of the year, to the number of national TV games, Ryan evaluates it all. Is this a good or bad schedule for the Nuggets given the returns of Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr.? Ryan m…

Ryan Blackburn reacts to the release of the Christmas Day slate of games, from expected matchups for the Warriors and Celtics to the addition of the Denver Nuggets to the agenda. They will face the Phoenix Suns at Ball Arena on Christmas. Ryan then breaks down Aaron Gordon's 2021-22 season and what to expect from Gordon during the 2022-23 season.…

Ryan Blackburn and Drew Creasman, lead Colorado Rockies analyst for Mile High Sports, discuss the Rockies and their plight for improvement. They also discuss the inverse issues the Rockies and Denver Nuggets face with problems relating to performance vs city imprint. Then, Ryan and Drew pivot to movies, discussing the best trilogies of all-time. Fr…

Ryan Blackburn breaks down the movers and shakers of the Southwest division, covering the Dallas Mavericks, Houston Rockets, Memphis Grizzlies, New Orleans Pelicans, and San Antonio Spurs. Which team will reign supreme next year? Which matchups will give the Nuggets the most trouble? What are the best bets for end-of-season awards? Ryan discusses i…

Ryan Blackburn breaks down the past, present, and future of Michael Porter Jr. in a Denver Nuggets uniform. He focuses on MPJ's last healthy season, his most pivotal moments so far, and what the Nuggets can expect from him following his back injury. Will MPJ return to normal and reach his potential? Or will his story be more complicated than that?…

Ryan Blackburn discusses the article he put together ranking the most talented teams in the Western Conference, focusing on the methodology, the top contenders, and where the Nuggets rank. Then, Ryan rants a bit about Marvel movies and why the MCU (Captain America, Iron Man, Thor, etc.) are legitimately good for the movie industry.…

Ryan Blackburn breaks down the biggest moves made in the Southeast Division. Between the Atlanta Hawks, Charlotte Hornets, Miami Heat, Orlando Magic, and Washington Wizards, which team will be the best? Which team will give the Nuggets the most trouble? Which awards might be won by a Southeast player? Ryan shares his thoughts on each team and their…

Ryan Blackburn hones in Denver Nuggets players during the offseason to evaluate what makes them special for the Nuggets and their fans. Up first: Jamal Murray, who lost two playoff runs to an ACL tear and is on his way back to the court. Ryan breaks down where Murray was before he went down and where he can still go when he gets back on the court. …

Ryan Blackburn brings on Adam Mares of DNVR to discuss his upcoming trip to Serbia and the impact Nikola Jokić has had on everyone around the Denver Nuggets. They also discuss the starting lineup chemistry and some potential pitfalls with different players introduced (or re-introduced) to the rotation. Finally, they have some fun discussing which a…

Ryan Blackburn breaks down each of the teams in the Northwest Division. How do the Nuggets, Timberwolves, Thunder, Blazers, and Jazz stack up in the present and future? Who is the best player? The best prospect? Which team has the best chance to win a championship?Av Mile High Sports

Ryan Blackburn previews the Denver Nuggets rotation for the 2022-23 season, including the wrinkles involved when Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. are forced to rest. How will the Nuggets approach the beginning of the season? What will they look like when they're fully healthy. Ryan shares his thoughts on several lineup combinations, including De…

Ryan Blackburn discusses the improvements the Denver Nuggets made to their defense, focusing on Nikola Jokić and his limitations, and whether it will make a tangible difference to Denver's playoff chances. Then, he discusses the impending moments in the 2022-23 season when the Nuggets will feel either back to normal or better than ever.…

Ryan Blackburn brings on Jeff Morton, podcast coordinator of Mile High Sports and host of the CSG podcast, to talk Denver Nuggets and other things. They go over Summer League as well as the biggest roadblocks the Nuggets have to winning a title next season. Then, they go over some shows they've been streaming lately like The Boys and why it may be …

Ryan Blackburn reacts to the Denver Nuggets fifth and final Summer League game in Las Vegas before sharing his final takeaways on Christian Braun, Peyton Watson, Ismael Kamagate, and more. Ryan also discusses the signing of Jack White to the final two-way contract slot. Then, what do Nuggets fans do now that Summer League is over? Ryan shares his p…

Ryan Blackburn shares his thoughts on each Denver Nuggets draft pick at Summer League and handicaps the race for the final two-way roster spot. Then, Ryan discusses the large scale movement around the NBA and how it's shaping the Western Conference title race. From Kevin Durant, to Donovan Mitchell, to Deandre Ayton, there are no shortage of storyl…

Ryan Blackburn discusses the news of the failed mediation hearing between Altitude and Comcast and the blackout ramifications for Denver Nuggets fans and watchers everywhere. Then, he discusses the impending take foul rule change and the possible in-season tournament, including why it's a good idea. Finally, Ryan answers some mailbag questions that…

Ryan Blackburn shares his thoughts on the top Denver Nuggets rotation players in Summer League after the first two games. From Christian Braun's role player traits, to Peyton Watson's highs and lows, to Jack White?! Ryan discusses candidates for Denver's final two-way contract before discussing the positive Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. tidbi…

Ryan Blackburn discusses what happened at Denver Nuggets Summer League practice on Tuesday, headlined by a surprise appearance from Jamal Murray. Ryan then previews Summer League by going over the top players on Denver's roster ahead of their first game on Friday. Then, some thoughts on what the Nuggets will look like when fully healthy again.…

Ryan Blackburn discusses the Denver Nuggets offseason moves in their entirety now that the entire league has mostly settled down (save for the Brooklyn stars). What did the Nuggets exchange from 2021-22 to 2022-23 outside of potentially better health? Ryan shares his thoughts, then some discussion on the Western Conference as a whole and where Denv…

Ryan Blackburn reacts to the Denver Nuggets signing Brooklyn Nets wing Brown Brown to a one-year deal with a player option on the second season, effectively saving Denver's entire plan for the bench this offseason. Brown will give the Nuggets endless utility and lineup combinations to use throughout the regular season and playoffs. Then, Ryan react…

Ryan Blackburn reacts to the Denver Nuggets moves in free agency as they sign Nikola Jokić to a supermax extension, re-sign Davon Reed, and then sign DeAndre Jordan for the veteran minimum. After telling fans they would be aggressive in improving their defense, the Nuggets signed...DeAndre Jordan. Ryan laments the moves and discusses another round …

Ryan Blackburn reacts to the Denver Nuggets trading Will Barton and Monte Morris to the Washington Wizards for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Ish Smith. The Nuggets are acquiring a 3&D upgrade on the wing at the cost of some stability at point guard. Ryan discusses the fit of KCP and Ish with the Nuggets roster, as well as how the trade affects the r…

Ryan Blackburn recaps the Denver Nuggets media availability for three rookies they drafted: Christian Braun, Peyton Watson, and Ismael Kamagate. All three were authentic and willing to answer every question thoughtfully, and Nuggets fans should be more excited about this class as a result. Then, Ryan goes over the big free agency rumors around the …

Ryan Blackburn discusses where the Denver Nuggets 2022-23 roster stands after the draft and before free agency. The additions of three rookies clarified some of Denver's goals as well as their resources to achieve their goals. Now, the Nuggets have a clear path forward to get better, as well as some updated targets in free agency and trades.…

Ryan Blackburn and Gordon Gross, senior writer for Denver Stiffs, break down the Denver Nuggets 2022 NBA Draft picks: Christian Braun, Peyton Watson, and Ismael Kamagate (as well as Collin Gillespie on a two-way contract). They discuss what they liked and didn't like about the way the Nuggets handled draft night. Then, they went through scouting re…

Ryan Blackburn and Brendan Vogt, DNVR Nuggets connoisseur, shares their final thoughts on the 2022 NBA Draft before it happens and how it will affect the Nuggets. They also discuss the big NBA rumors and what they're excited to watch in free agency. Then, they talk about the evolution of fandom and local media and how it's affecting basketball cove…

Ryan Blackburn shares his thoughts on MarJon Beauchamp and Trevion Williams after both attended a pre-draft workout with the Nuggets on Monday. Beauchamp reportedly impressed the Nuggets and appears to be a great fit. Ryan shares his top five Nuggets draft prospects before discussing some of the more interesting NBA rumors out there.…

Ryan Blackburn discusses some of the news and notes around the Denver Nuggets, from Nikola Jokić committing to the Serbian National Team for EuroBasket to trade rumors for Monte Morris, Will Barton, and Denver's draft picks. Then, Ryan makes his official Nuggets draft night predictions, including the player Denver will acquire to be next season's s…

Ryan Blackburn brings on CrownHoops contributor and Nuggets Draft Twitter veteran CTFazio24 to discuss the Denver Nuggets acquiring the 30th pick and what it means for the off-season. They go in-depth on several prospects that they like and dislike. Then, they play "Let's Make a Deal!" where CT has to choose between three doors, behind which lay co…