Nuggets thriving even with no headliner

"We're a growing team. We're going to keep growing. It's going to take some time. This is not something that we put together to say, 'OK, it's now or never.' We want to see these young guys grow."

That's why the Nuggets made a commitment to Gallinari, the 23-year-old Italian forward who they think will only get better with more court time.

Not only that, but the signing helps with stability. The last thing the Nuggets want to go through is another Anthony ordeal like last season, when they were shopping their star around for the best deal, rather than lose him for nothing in free agency.

What the Nuggets ended up getting in return for Anthony has helped set this run in motion. They're 31-12 since reshaping their roster, becoming a team that doesn't rely on one player so much as a bunch of them.

"We have a lot of really good players, unselfish players," Gallinari said. "Everybody really likes to work hard."

That's certainly what has stood out to Ujiri, who stopped by to observe a packed practice floor Thursday on what was an optional day for the players.

"You see them here, they are basketball junkies," Ujiri said. "They come in here and work. There's something to be said for them. Hopefully, it translates to wins, into building something."

Follow AP Sports Writer Pat Graham on Twitter: pgraham34