The Nuggets part ways with Smith and Nene and welcome Chris Bosh and Larry Brown to D town. However...

Before the Nuggets organization even thinks about making its first moves of the offseason, they will have to find out who is going to be at the helm for the 2010-2011 season.

One thing that this year's short-lived playoff run proved is that this roster, as it is assembled now, is a machine only Karl is fit to drive.

That doesn't mean Dantley may not have success with another group of players in a different situation - the bottom line is: he was not suited to be in the position he was in.

So, the question is... will Karl return to the bench?

Whether Karl is back or not, the Nuggets should make a push to nab Larry Brown.

As a good friend of Karl and perfect complement to him with his defensive minded philosophy, he would be a great top assistant. Or head coach. In fact, I would love to see Brown and Karl form a two-headed-monster head coaching duo. Or, perhaps, Karl would prefer to take a step back and play the role of assistant and philosopher to Brown a la the role Doug Moe had a few years back.

If Larry Brown could learn to coexist with Carmelo, the team could go places.

Of course, it would also punch J.R. Smith's ticket out of town. Even with an improved effort on defense, consistency and focus still leave something to be desired.

If the Nuggets could trade either Martin or Nene, J.R. Smith, and a 1st round pick for Chris Bosh and Joey Dorsey, their 2010-2011 plans would be looking up.

Toronto would welcome Nene to its international community and he would be able to hold down the middle as a good complement to Andrea Bargnani. Alternatively, Kenyon Martin would bring them some much needed toughness and defensive intensity.

Of course,

joining the "maybe we will be the ones to get bosh!" club only serves to further rub in how utterly over our season is.

And how far away the roster's current complexion is from looking like a true championship contender, despite its luster and promise at season's start.

As fans, we'll have to just wait and see how it plays out.

Regardless of what happens, we can all wish Karl the best with his recovery - and throw our eggs another team's basket - I'm going with Orlando...