We loyal fans keep pretending the Nuggets can be serious contenders with the current set of players. Games like tonight in LA ---when there is no D in Denver---underlines the foolishness of that notion. First and foremost, we need to jettison our two "novelty acts" in favor of seasoned, consistently reliable players. Yes, I speak of Mr. Andersen and Mr. Smith. Cris may be entertaining to look at but he's no fun to watch. He lacks the bulk to be a real force in the middle and, more importantly, he lacks the defensive skills to defend any half-decent forward or center. J.R. has had some good minutes but remains inconsistent---and we can certainly acquire a more reliable if less spectacular perimeter shooter (Affalo, Ty and Forbes already contribute on that front.) Going forward with these two clowns undermines the effort to play solid defense on a nightly basis.

Then there is Big Al, who has been a Big Disappointment---especially on the defensive end---and his Big Contract makes no sense if the team is looking for cap flexibility and promising young players. Not faulting the signing, but it clearly is not working out.

Getting rid of at least two of the three bona fide losers should get us a second talent to go along with whoever we get from our primary trade partner for Melo. Besides, leaning primarily on the draft for new talent is a particularly risky proposition given the uncertain state of the league negotiations with the players union

Finally, the only player I know of who could come close to the kind of numbers Melo brings is Gerald Wallace, who plays smart and tough at both ends. Nicolas Batum has some upside (and a tiny contract vs. Wallace's $10 million) but he lacks the strength, experience or track record to be come anywhere near filling the big gap at small forward if Melo exits.This kind of acquisition is vital to holding the fan base during the transition from the Melo era.

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