The Denver Nuggets made two big additions to their second unit this offseason, signing both Russell Westbrook and Dario Saric in free agency. In theory, the tandem was expected to fit well together, as Saric could serve as a big stretch for Westbrook and his downhill attack.

While Westbrook has been instrumental for Denver, including as a starter in Jamal Murray’s three-game absence, Saric has struggled in his minutes. Saric has made just two of his 12 field goal attempts in five appearances and has been removed from Michael Malone’s rotation for the last five games.

Denver has won all five games that Saric has been benched outright, and while it’s not directly related to his removal from the rotation, there’s no reason for Malone to change things up while the team is winning games.

Speaking about this via Bennett Durando of The Denver Post, Malone said Saric has been a pro at things.

“I don’t expect Dario to walk around here with a smile and pom poms like he loves this,” Malone said. “But to his credit, he’s been the ultimate teammate.”

Malone also talked about Zeke Nnaji, who has gotten an opportunity to back up Nikola Jokic, adding, “I think he’s been solid. I think he’s going to continue to get an opportunity. He’s got to go out and just try to finish around the basket, knock down open threes. And most importantly obviously he has to be the anchor of our defense if he plays the backup five.”

The NBA season is long and there are always adjustments to be made. For now, Saric is out of the rotation, but he will almost certainly get another opportunity at some point.

Nikola Jokic makes NBA history in Nuggets-Mavericks

Nikola Jokic makes a strong statement from Russell Westbrook

Latest update on Denver Nuggets potentially signing ex-Lakers players