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The Denver Nuggets have fallen short of the Western Conference Finals three straight seasons since winning it all in 2023.

Why it matters: Denver enters the 2026-27 season far from underdogs, but slightly removed from their usual pedestal among the NBA's elite. 

The team's title odds are a long shot, tied for the seventh-best in the league with three other teams, per DraftKings.

Yes, but: The Nuggets are still led by Nikola Jokić. ESPN ranked the 31-year-old Serbian center as the NBA's top player for the third consecutive year. 

He led the league in rebounds and assists per game last year — the first NBA player to do so. 

What they're saying: "I would say that our expectation is trying to get in the top six," Nuggets' head coach David Adelman reportedly said during practice Monday.  

Between the lines: Point guard Jamal Murray will shoot for an encore of last year's All-Star campaign, while forward Aaron Gordon will need to stay healthy to give the Nuggets a defensive presence. 

Key new additions include NBA veteran DeMar DeRozan, EuroLeague stalwart Alpha Diallo and rookie Trevon Brazile. 

What's next: The Nuggets open the NBA season at 7:30pm Thursday against the Oklahoma City Thunder on ESPN. 

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Nuggets return with tempered expectations 

The team is back, but its title aspirations are dampened by stronger contenders.

Basketball game in progress: players in blue Mile High City jerseys (numbers 27 and 15) sprint down the court while an opponent in white pursues; a packed crowd watches from the stands.

Jamal Murray carries the ball with Nikola Jokić in the foreground during a game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Photo: AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post via Getty Images

The Denver Nuggets have <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="fallen short" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/05/04/nuggets-playoff-exit-season-end" data-vars-content-id="090fae41-05ae-481d-95bd-f84ffe838c75" data-vars-headline="Nuggets return with tempered expectations " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/05/04/nuggets-playoff-exit-season-end" target="_self">fallen short</a> of the Western Conference Finals three straight seasons since <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="winning it all in 2023" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/06/13/denver-nuggets-first-title-nba-champions-beat-miami-heat-finals" data-vars-content-id="090fae41-05ae-481d-95bd-f84ffe838c75" data-vars-headline="Nuggets return with tempered expectations " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/06/13/denver-nuggets-first-title-nba-champions-beat-miami-heat-finals" target="_self">winning it all in 2023</a>.

News

Sports

House Speaker Mike Johnson appears to think so highly of Republican Rep. Gabe Evans that he says the freshman congressman could one day take his job.

Zoom in: "He's that good," Johnson said Thursday during a northern Colorado campaign stop, part of a nationwide blitz to shore up Republicans ahead of the midterms.

Why it matters: Johnson's Colorado cameo underscores how much Republicans are counting on Evans to hold onto Colorado's fiercely competitive 8th District seat — and help save their House majority.

Yes, but: With President Trump's approval ratings sinking and Democrats gaining ground nationally, Evans faces a tough fight.

The intrigue: Johnson is brushing off the polls suggesting trouble ahead for his party. 

He told us he's "not putting any stock anymore in the national polls," adding, "They're unreliable."

He insisted Republicans can still win tight races, citing Trump's return to the campaign trail: "It looks like 2024 to us." 

Reality check: The numbers paint a bleaker picture.

Democrats lead by as many as 10 points in national polling, while Trump's approval ratings have sunk to record lows in some surveys.

Meanwhile, Latino voters — a key voting bloc in Evans' district — have also soured on Trump, a poll released last month shows. 

The latest: Trump urged Coloradans to vote for Evans and other Republican lawmakers in a Thursday post on X: "These Great Patriots have my Complete and Total Endorsement." 

What they're saying: "When you vote for Gabe Evans, you will know you did the right thing in Colorado," Johnson says. 

The House speaker repeatedly called Evans' Democratic opponent Manny Rutinel "crazy." 

The other side: "What's crazy is Gabe Evans voting 100% of the time with Donald Trump," Alex Terr, spokesperson for Manny for Colorado, said in a statement.

Terr pointed to Evans' support for Trump's "chaotic tariffs, forever wars, and health care cuts that are raising costs and giving tax breaks to his billionaire donors." 

The bottom line: The midterms could be a bloodbath for Republicans.

A brief visit from a top party figure may signal support, but it also signals the lengths Republicans must go to retain support.  

Mike Johnson calls Gabe Evans "that good"

The Republican leader made two campaign stops in Longmont.

Outside in a parking lot, professionals chat as two men shake hands in the foreground: one in a navy suit with glasses, the other in a dark suit and blue shirt; others stand nearby.

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) shakes hands with U.S. Rep. Gabe Evans (R-Colo.) after arriving at a truck repair shop in Weld County. Photo: Esteban L. Hernandez/Axios


House Speaker Mike Johnson appears to think so highly of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Republican Rep. Gabe Evans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/08/8th-district-debate-evans-rutinel" data-vars-content-id="644e5309-ae40-44af-81ee-d510975e59f0" data-vars-headline="Mike Johnson calls Gabe Evans &quot;that good&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/08/8th-district-debate-evans-rutinel" target="_self">Republican Rep. Gabe Evans</a> that he says the freshman congressman could one day take his job. Zoom in: &quot;He&#x27;s that good,&quot; Johnson said Thursday during a northern Colorado campaign stop, part of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a nationwide blitz" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/28/mike-johnson-midterms-house-republicans" data-vars-content-id="644e5309-ae40-44af-81ee-d510975e59f0" data-vars-headline="Mike Johnson calls Gabe Evans &quot;that good&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/28/mike-johnson-midterms-house-republicans" target="_self">a nationwide blitz</a> to shore up Republicans ahead of the midterms.

Politics

Election

For years, Denver-based CoreSite operated largely under the radar, running two data centers — including one inside a historic downtown building — with little public scrutiny. 

Why it matters: Fierce opposition to CoreSite's newest project in Elyria-Swansea has thrust the company into a broader fight over the future of data centers in Denver.

State of play: Denver imposed in May a one-year moratorium on new data center applications, sparing CoreSite's newest facility.

Mayor Mike Johnston has since floated an outright ban as the city explores new regulations.

What they're saying: "I just think it's a lack of education, a lack of understanding of the different types of data centers that exist," CoreSite spokesperson Megan Ruszkowski tells us.

The company's working to be a more transparent "responsible builder" in the current climate, Ruszkowski adds. 

It's also participating in mediation with the GES Coalition, a local advocacy group, on a good neighbor agreement aimed at limiting environmental and neighborhood impact.

Zoom in: CoreSite's newest facility, known as DE3, opened this month and powers everything from video chat to AI applications, CoreSite central region general manager Yvonne Ng tells us. 

The company insists DE3 isn't an AI data center, though it will support AI inferencing — the process of using trained models to generate outputs, such as personalized recommendations. 

They're aware of the optics. "I think people see [other] AI data centers as a manifestation of AI," Ruszkowski says.

By the numbers: CoreSite's executives say the facility:

Has a maximum capacity of 24 megawatts, though it's expected to peak around 18 megawatts.

Could use up to 95 million gallons of water annually at full capacity but will more likely consume about 115,000 gallons daily, or about 42 million gallons annually.

Will generate an estimated $200 million in tax revenue over 20 years and create about 20 on-site jobs.

The other side: Neighbors remain concerned about noise, air and water pollution.

"The millions of dollars in profits for CoreSite come at a price — our health," Swansea resident Mercedes Gonzalez said during a city council event this month. 

The bottom line: Despite public blowback, demand for data centers is only increasing, Ng tells us. 

Denver's data center working group — which CoreSite isn't involved in — will explore potential new regulations for future sites.  

Facing backlash, CoreSite vows "responsible" building

For years, Denver-based CoreSite operated largely under the radar.

Modern glass office building with blue-tinted windows, black sunshades, and a CoreSite sign; blue sky with white clouds, a fenced perimeter, and a concrete plaque in the foreground.

The CoreSite data center in the Elyria-Swansea neighborhoods. Photo; Jim West/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images


For years, Denver-based CoreSite operated largely under the radar, running two data centers — including one <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="inside a historic downtown building" data-vars-click-url="https://milehighcre.com/coresite-acquires-historic-denver-gas-and-electric-building/" data-vars-content-id="9e67a131-fd42-4d1c-b966-5c7a05f8ea51" data-vars-headline="Facing backlash, CoreSite vows &quot;responsible&quot; building" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://milehighcre.com/coresite-acquires-historic-denver-gas-and-electric-building/" target="_blank">inside a historic downtown building</a> — with little public scrutiny. <ul><li>Not anymore.</li></ul>

Environment

The Denver Art Museum next year welcomes a name synonymous with modern art: Pablo Picasso. 

Why it matters: The exhibition will mark DAM's first comprehensive showcase of the Spanish master — one of the most influential artists of the 20th century — and its only U.S. stop. 

The big picture: DAM is partnering with Musée National Picasso–Paris and Manifesto Expo for "Picasso: Magician," which chronicles seven decades of the artist's pioneering work, DAM announced this week. 

What to expect: The exhibition will feature about 130 works, including paintings, sculptures, drawings and ceramics created by Picasso, plus 20 by other artists.

It will present pieces from the artist's Blue Period, Cubism and Surrealist eras, with special attention to his focus on the human form. 

What they're saying: The exhibition will be "extraordinary," DAM director Christoph Heinrich said in a statement.

Picasso was "just like a magician" with an "ability to transform reality into new creative forms full of humanity, mystery and emotion," he said.

What's next: "Picasso: Magician" runs from Oct. 31, 2027 to Feb. 27, 2028 inside the Hamilton Building. 

Denver Art Museum lands major Picasso exhibition   

Split image: left panel shows a moody blue-green portrait of a man in a dark coat; right panel features a bright cubist abstract with interlocking shapes and figures in colorful hues.

"Self-Portrait" and "The Sculptor" by Pablo Picasso. Images: Courtesy of Musée National Picasso-Paris

The Denver Art Museum next year welcomes a name synonymous with modern art: Pablo Picasso. Why it matters: The exhibition will mark DAM&#x27;s first comprehensive showcase of the Spanish master — one of the most influential artists of the 20th century — and its only U.S. stop.

Things to Do

Culture

Ball Arena unveiled new menu items Wednesday, including dishes from Denver favorites like Bao Brewhouse, Nola Jane and Wild Taco. 

Best bites: We picked five dishes worth trying at the next Colorado Avalanche or Denver Nuggets home game this season. 

Zesty options include mushroom, buffalo chicken and even cheeseburger. 

Buffet scene with a metal tray of braised, caramelized beef chunks in juices; to the right, a wooden board piled with small sandwiches on skewers.

Big Belly Brothers BBQ's beef burnt ends. Photo: Esteban L. Hernandez/Axios

🍖 Big Belly Brothers BBQ beef burnt ends (Sec. 148, 379)

Meaty, tender and packed with smoky flavor. 

A house-made treat topped with candied peanuts for a crunch. 

🍗 Nola Jane's chicken tenders (Sec. 303)

These glazed-style tenders are savory with just a hint of spice. 

🌮 Wild Taco's chicken & waffle taco (Sec. 118, 330)

Do NOT skip these delectable little tacos, which may be the best new dish at Ball Arena. 

Rows of white takeaway boxes hold soft corn tortillas topped with shredded beef, onions, and cilantro, plus small cups of dark dipping sauce.

Taco options at Ball Arena from Wild Taco. Photo: Esteban L. Hernandez/Axios

What's next: The Nuggets make their regular-season home debut Saturday against the New Orleans Pelicans. 

The best new bites at Ball Arena this season 

Dozens of new dishes will be available for Avs and Nuggets games.

Blurry restaurant scene: plates of soft tacos filled with meat, lettuce, and shredded cheese on a wooden table; lime wedges visible; blurred background shows jackets on mannequins.

Taco salad from Michelob Ultra Mountain House. Photo: Esteban L. Hernandez/Axios


Ball Arena unveiled <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new menu items" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2025/10/23/best-new-food-ball-arena" data-vars-content-id="e29aa1a4-a86a-428f-809b-e7079809350c" data-vars-headline="The best new bites at Ball Arena this season " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2025/10/23/best-new-food-ball-arena" target="_self">new menu items</a> Wednesday, including dishes from Denver favorites like Bao Brewhouse, Nola Jane and Wild Taco. Best bites: We picked five dishes worth trying at the next Colorado Avalanche or Denver Nuggets home game this season.

Food and Drink

Colorado voters face major decisions in the 2026 midterms, from statewide questions to choosing the next governor — and the stakes are high.

We've rounded up 1-minute voter guides to key races and ballot measures to get you smarter, faster about your ballot.

Oct. 19: Voting centers open for in-person voting or ballot drop-off.

Oct. 26: Last recommended day to mail your ballot.

Nov. 3: Election Day. Polls are open 7am–7pm. County clerks must receive ballots by 7pm.

Nov. 12: Deadline for eligible military and overseas ballots to arrive and for voters to resolve signature issues.

Illustration of a voting ballot with an x over it against a background featuring ballot elements

Illustration: Sarah Grillo/Axios. Stock: Getty Images

Colorado voters will decide 14 statewide ballot measures, plus local questions on everything from taxes to transportation.

Amendment 83: Right to hunting and fishing

Amendment 86: Congressional redistricting

Amendment 87 and Propositions NN, 136 and 137: Taxes and TABOR

Amendment 81: Police cooperation with ICE

Proposition 133: Human trafficking penalties

Propositions 134 and 135: Transgender youth

Illustration of the Colorado flag with a checkmark and box instead of a C and the sun.

Democrats are defending five statewide seats.

Colorado's U.S. Senate race — Hickenlooper vs. Baisley

Gonzalez and Wiley vie for secretary of state

Bridges and Grantham compete for state treasurer

Marx, Weiser clash over domestic violence

Weiser quietly courts GOP leaders ahead of Election Day

Governor's race pits insider versus outsider

What we know — and don't — about Victor Marx

Weiser taps Lesley Dahlkemper for lieutenant governor

 Democratic congressional candidate Melat Kiros speaks to supporters at an election-night watch party after winning the Colorado primary on June 30, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. Kiros defeated incumbent Rep. Diana DeGette in the Democratic primary. (Photo by Michael Ciaglo/Getty Images)

Democratic congressional candidate Melat Kiros speaks to supporters after winning the primary. Photo: by Michael Ciaglo/Getty Images

Democratic socialist Melat Kiros upset longtime incumbent U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (D-Denver). Now, she faces two opponents.

1-minute voter guide: Blau and Kiros seek 1st District seat

Kiros win spotlights local Democratic Socialists' growing influence

Melat Kiros sits on a Democratic island in Colorado

Newcomer Blau casts himself as Denver's moderate candidate

Progressive challenger tests DeGette's hold

Jewish leaders press Kiros over antisemitism claims

Republican Rep. Lauren Boebert and Democratic challenger Eileen Laubacher field questions from moderator Kyle Clark during a 4th Congressional District debate at 9News in Denver, Colorado on Monday, October 12, 2026. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

Republican Rep. Lauren Boebert and Democratic challenger Eileen Laubacher field questions at a debate. Photo: AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post via Getty Images

U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Windsor) faces a competitive Democratic challenger, Eileen Laubacher, in her reelection bid.

1-minute voter guide: Lauren Boebert and Eileen Laubacher seek 4th District seat

Military service key for Democratic congressional candidates

Jeff Crank, left, and Jessica Killin, right. Photos: AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post via Getty Images

Democrat Jessica Killin is trying to unseat Republican U.S. Rep. Jeff Crank in this El Paso County district.

1-minute voter guide: Crank and Killin battle for the 5th Congressional District

Democrat Manny Rutinel is trying to oust Republican U.S. Rep. Gabe Evans in one of the nation's most competitive House races.

1-minute voter guide: Gabe Evans and Manny Rutinel compete in the 8th District

Evans, Rutinel clash in high-stakes congressional debate

What voters in Colorado's most competitive district are saying

Gabe Evans spent big on taxpayer-funded "franking"

How Latino voters could sway key Colorado races

Manny Rutinel once said veganism is a solution to food costs

Illustration of an African American man's hand holding an "I Voted!" button  surrounded by ballot elements.

1-minute voter guide: Denver's 6 ballot measures

1- minute voter guide: Denver's at-large city council seat

Colorado prints longest-ever Blue Book voter guide

GOP candidates try to blame Dems for affordability crisis

Democrats think they can win all GOP seats in Colorado

Federal uncertainty reshapes Denver's election prep

Denver council candidates seem to agree on almost everything

Lauren Boebert and Eileen Laubacher seek 4th District seat

Crank and Killin battle for the 5th Congressional District

Colorado voter guide: What to know about the candidates and ballot measures

We put together voter guides to get you smarter, faster about your ballot.

Colorado voters face major decisions in the 2026 midterms, from statewide questions to choosing the next governor — and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the stakes are high" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/07/colorado-2026-ballot-stakes" data-vars-content-id="e5e45b27-4eae-4fed-b52b-f5ed7c09be37" data-vars-headline="Colorado voter guide: What to know about the candidates and ballot measures" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/07/colorado-2026-ballot-stakes" target="_self">the stakes are high</a>.We&#x27;re here to help.

Esteban L. Hernandez

Featured stories

Denver Art Museum lands major Picasso exhibition

Facing backlash, CoreSite vows "responsible" building

Mike Johnson calls Gabe Evans "that good"

Nuggets return with tempered expectations

The best new bites at Ball Arena this season