Denver Nuggets’ Top Offseason Targets for 2024: Priorities and Strategies
Explore the Denver Nuggets’ potential trade and free-agent targets for the 2024 offseason, categorized by fit, feasibility, and impact.
Overview
The Denver Nuggets ended the 2023-24 season with a strong 57-25 record, securing the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference. However, their playoff run was cut short by a tough second-round exit against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Building on their recent success, including a championship win, the Nuggets are looking to make strategic moves to strengthen their roster and maintain their dominance.
Nikola Jokic had another MVP-winning season, supported by Jamal Murray’s dynamic play. However, the postseason exposed some areas for improvement, especially in maintaining consistency under pressure. The Nuggets are exploring trades and free-agent signings to address these issues, particularly their frontcourt depth.
Dream Acquisition: Donovan Mitchell
How the Nuggets Can Land Donovan Mitchell
– Nuggets receive: Donovan Mitchell
– Cavaliers receive: Michael Porter Jr., Christian Braun, 2026 first-round pick, 2028 first-round pick (swap)
Donovan Mitchell tops the Nuggets’ wishlist. Known for his scoring, defense, and clutch performances, Mitchell could form a formidable trio with Jokic and Murray. To acquire him, the Nuggets might need to offer a package including Michael Porter Jr., Christian Braun, and future first-round picks, aligning with Cleveland’s potential rebuilding strategy.
Top Priorities: Mikal Bridges, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
How the Nuggets Can Land Mikal Bridges
– Nuggets receive: Mikal Bridges
– Nets receive: Michael Porter Jr., 2026 first-round pick
Mikal Bridges, known for his perimeter defense and efficient scoring, could fit seamlessly into the Nuggets’ lineup. To acquire him, Denver might need to offer Michael Porter Jr. and a future first-round pick, providing the Nets with valuable assets for their rebuild.
How the Nuggets Can Retain Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
Retaining Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (KCP) is crucial due to his three-point shooting and elite defense. KCP might explore free agency, but the Nuggets can offer a contract with incentives or a longer-term deal to keep him. His defense and shooting are vital for Denver’s playoff aspirations.
High Priorities: Lauri Markkanen, Alex Caruso
How the Nuggets Can Land Lauri Markkanen
– Nuggets receive: Lauri Markkanen
– Jazz receive: Michael Porter Jr., Zeke Nnaji, 2026 first-round pick
Lauri Markkanen’s versatile scoring and rebounding make him a prime target. A trade package including Michael Porter Jr., Zeke Nnaji, and a first-round pick could entice the Jazz, adding depth and offensive versatility to the Nuggets.
How the Nuggets Can Land Alex Caruso
– Nuggets receive: Alex Caruso
– Bulls receive: Zeke Nnaji, Peyton Watson, 2026 first-round pick
Alex Caruso’s defensive tenacity and playmaking would bolster Denver’s perimeter defense. Offering Zeke Nnaji, Peyton Watson, and a first-round pick could secure Caruso, enhancing the Nuggets’ backcourt depth.
Medium Priorities: Victor Oladipo, Daniel Theis, Reggie Jackson
How the Nuggets Can Land Victor Oladipo
Signing Victor Oladipo could be a low-risk, high-reward move given his injury history. A one-year, veteran minimum deal with performance-based incentives could bring his experience and defensive skills to Denver’s bench.
How the Nuggets Can Land Daniel Theis
Signing Daniel Theis would provide the Nuggets with a reliable backup center. His defense and shooting efficiency make him a valuable addition to Denver’s frontcourt depth.
How the Nuggets Can Retain Reggie Jackson
Re-signing Reggie Jackson, who has a player option, is important for maintaining backcourt depth. Negotiating a favorable deal could keep him as a key contributor off the bench.
Low Priorities: Dario Saric, Danilo Gallinari
How the Nuggets Can Land Dario Saric
Dario Saric’s ability to stretch the floor and provide solid rebounding makes him an attractive free-agent target. His skill set would complement Jokic’s playmaking, adding depth to Denver’s rotation.
How the Nuggets Can Land Danilo Gallinari
Reuniting with Danilo Gallinari would bring additional scoring and experience. His ability to play both forward positions would provide lineup flexibility, boosting the Nuggets’ bench scoring.
By targeting these players, the Denver Nuggets aim to bolster their roster, addressing key weaknesses and enhancing their chances for another deep playoff run and potential championship.
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