Who Wants To Be A Millionaire: NBA Edition

These guys do. While neither of them are especially skilled, they are both extremely important role players and part of the reason the Nuggets have advanced to the second round for the first time in the Carmelo Anthony era. Chris Anderson rejoined the Nuggets (after spending some time with the Hornets) following a NBA mandated suspension for substance abuse while Dahntay Jones has bounced around the league since coming out of Duke. The Nuggets signed both to minimum contracts and both are showing their mettle in the playoffs; Anderson with his brand of energetic, high flying basketball and Jones with lockdown D and Rodman-esque psychological warfare.

In a league full of overpaid athletes (contract year wonders), it's refreshing to watch these two relish their roles and step up on the big stage. Jones in particular saw sporadic playing time throughout the year but was always the first guy off the bench to congratulate his teammates after a big play.

Here's what Denver's payroll looks like:

Denver still has 2 players on their payroll that weren't on their roster this season, Juwan Howard and Antonio McDyess (McDyess was part of the Chauncey Billups deal). Both Anderson and Jones earned less than McDyess, Steven Hunter (the guy in a suit on the bench and the 6th highest paid guy on the team), and bench-riders Renaldo Balkman and Johan Petro.

There are only 2 players on Denver's roster that make less than Dahntay and Chris (Jason Hart and rookie Sonny Weems). Along with Anthony Carter and Jason Hart, Anderson and Jones' contracts are up after this season (the terms of J.R. Smith's 3 year deal are not listed). Thankfully for the Nuggets, there are many franchises with empty wallets so there won't be many willing to throw ridiculous jack at guys with limited skill sets. Here's to hoping the Nuggets show a little love to Anderson and Jones; a little loyalty from both would be nice as well, considering the Nuggets gave them a chance this season.

-PSon