The highlight of the Denver Nuggets’ preseason opening against the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday was rookie Julian Strawther. The 21-year-old scored 20 points as the Nuggets defeated the Suns 115-107 in Phoenix.

Strawther had to explain how at ease his teammates made him feel after his excellent debut.

“It was good,” Strawther stated of his first experience with the Denver Nuggets (h/t Katy Winge). “I thought we were playing really well; we competed and worked hard on both ends of the floor.” Obviously, we’re still trying to figure out who we are… I believed males could track each other down. I became heated, and the team took advantage of it in the third quarter. That is what makes this squad so special. There’s just so much trust between them. My first time on an NBA court, and they were looking for me tonight… That simply goes to show how good this team is.”

Strawther’s 20 points came on an excellent 8-of-12 shooting night, including four three-pointers.

Can Julian Strawther garner significant playing time for the Denver Nuggets?

Maybe.

It’s not out of the question that the youngster may find himself in Michael Malone’s rotation this season. Denver’s wing depth was decimated over the offseason. Bruce Brown and Jeff Green both left for free agency, and Vlatko Cancar tore his ACL.

The Nuggets will most likely look to a variety of players to fill the vacancy off the bench. Strawther could be in line for some real minutes this season if he can contribute at half the amount he did against Phoenix.