Predictions this season regarding the Nuggets have been less than flattering.

Third place in the Northwest Division, which never has been called a “Group of Death.”

Losing record.

Watching the playoffs on television.

But none of those predictions is coming from the Nuggets.

Despite the fact that they lost defensive stalwart Marcus Camby, Nuggets players are making big boasts as training camp is set to begin Tuesday.

“We’ve got a chance to win 50 to 60 (games),” forward Carmelo Anthony said. “We’ve got a chance to be one of the best teams in the NBA.”

Anthony spoke of 60 last season, and the Nuggets went 50-32. But guard Allen Iverson and forward Kenyon Martin said they have the talent to add 10 to that.

“Sixty games,” Martin said. “We won 50 games last year and came in eighth place (in the West). It will take 60 to be in the top three. So, I think so.”

Camby was dealt to the Clippers in July for next to nothing, and forward Eduardo Najera bolted to New Jersey as a free agent. That’s why many believe the Nuggets will take a step back.

But Denver’s players don’t think so.

“We’re going to quiet a lot of people’s mouths,” vows Nene, who will replace Camby as the starting center.