The Nuggets could make a move if they feel like they are a piece or two short at the deadline.
The Denver Nuggets are all-in on winning a second straight championship and becoming a dynasty. Nikola Jokic is the best player in the world, and there is plenty of talent around him. They are 17-9, including winning ten of their first 11 at home, but what if they feel like they are a piece or two short before the Feb. 8 trade deadline?
They have five second-round draft picks plus multiple first-round swaps available to improve their roster. Their starting five is locked in, but do the Nuggets have enough depth? Reggie Jackson is playing better but fell out of the postseason rotation in 2023. Justin Holiday is a veteran wing option, but the others are under 25 years old with talent and limited experience.
If general manager Calvin Booth and the Nuggets front office believe the team needs additional help, he will attempt to acquire it. Who could they trade to make it happen?
4. Vlatko Cancar
Cancar tore his ACL playing for the Slovenian National Team and is expected to miss the entire season. He played just 14.8 minutes per game in 2023 and was axed from their playoff rotation. The Nuggets have a team option on the 6’8 forward for the 2024-25 season at $2.3 million, but it may be time to cut bait on the 26-year-old.
Cancar does not have much trade value, but the Nuggets may move him to open up a roster spot. They currently have 18 players under contract, which is the maximum. It is not easy to find 6’8 forwards who can shoot 36.1 percent from 3-point range. Cancar’s injury and limited role are deterrents, but a rebuilding team could take a chance, especially with a cheap team option for next season.
The Denver Nuggets are not getting anything from Vlatko Cancar this season. It makes sense to trade him, but they may need additional salary to make a move.
3. Zeke Nnaji
Nnaji landed a four-year $32 million rookie extension before the season. Fans thought it would mean more playing time and a larger role, but his minutes are down for a second straight year. He is producing 3.7 points, and 2.4 rebounds in 10.3 minutes per game. There is little to be excited about, and it may be time for the Nuggets to move on.
3. Zeke Nnaji
Nnaji landed a four-year $32 million rookie extension before the season. Fans thought it would mean more playing time and a larger role, but his minutes are down for a second straight year. He is producing 3.7 points, and 2.4 rebounds in 10.3 minutes per game. There is little to be excited about, and it may be time for the Nuggets to move on.
1. Reggie Jackson
Jackson has been outstanding so far this season. He played in all 26 games and is averaging 13.6 points, 4.6 assists, and 2.2 rebounds in 26.2 minutes per game. The veteran is shooting 49.1 percent from the field and 41.4 percent on his 3-point tries. Jackson looks back to his prime after some serious questions to end last season
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