The Denver Nuggets have been balling all season long. The team has an array of stars that can go off on any given night, but one individual that has established himself as an inspirational leader for the squad — despite barely figuring in the team’s rotation — is none other than point guard Isaiah Thomas.

According to teammate Will Barton, he considers Thomas to be an inspiration to him, noting how the veteran’s attitude remains professional despite his lack of playing time.

“He’s an inspiration to me,” Barton said, via Joe Vardon of The Athletic. “Especially in this situation that I’m going through now, being a starter, used to producing a lot, now you’re playing 15 minutes and coming off the bench. So I just look to him so I won’t pout too much or complain.”

As Barton pointed out, he is in a bit of a conundrum himself given his recent demotion to the second unit. The 28-year-old wing lost his spot in the starting five to Torrey Craig, with Barton being relegated to just 15 minutes off the bench in Game 4 of their first-round series matchup against the San Antonio Spurs.

Being the professional that he is, Barton is more than willing to make the sacrifice for the greater good of the team, and looks to Thomas for some much needed motivation.

“He still cheers for us, he still works out every day and goes hard, so like I said, he’s motivation,” Barton added.

Game 5 versus the Spurs will take place on Tuesday night, with Barton and the Nuggets looking to secure a home victory to gain a 3-2 advantage in the series.