DENVER (AP) -- Danilo Gallinari encountered a dogged defender on the court that he just couldn't shake.
No matter what move he made, this bulldog of a defender shadowed the smooth-shooting Denver Nuggets forward everywhere he went at practice on Thursday.
Finally, Gallinari did the only thing he could think of to get open: He leaned over and scooped up the furry new friend that had wandered onto the floor for some playing time.
Hey, even puppies recognize a good player when they see one.
As does the English bulldog's owner, Nuggets President Josh Kroenke, whose team signed Gallinari to a four-year extension worth $42 million.
Gallinari may just be the closest thing this squad has to a bona fide star.
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