Four Players the Nuggets Should Steer Clear of in the 2024 NBA Draft
The Denver Nuggets, who have traded many first-round picks on their journey to becoming champions, do have a first-round pick this year. Which prospects should they avoid in the 2024 NBA Draft?
The Nuggets fell short of the NBA Finals this season, a year after winning their first title. With a clear understanding of what it takes to win, Denver aims to return to the NBA’s biggest stage. The team is largely expected to maintain its current roster, assuming Kentavious Caldwell-Pope picks up his player option.
Denver holds the 28th and 56th overall picks in the 2024 NBA Draft, looking to bolster their roster and regain their championship form. After losing key pieces like Bruce Brown and Jeff Green last offseason, hitting on their draft picks will be crucial.
Led by their three-time MVP Nikola Jokic, the Nuggets’ success hinges on surrounding him with complementary talent. Not every prospect fits perfectly into this dynamic. The following players are ones the Nuggets should avoid in the upcoming draft.
4. Carlton Carrington: Pitt, PG
Carlton Carrington, a point guard from Pitt, excels in the mid-range jump shot, a skill not prioritized in today’s NBA analytics. Denver’s offense, primarily run through Jokic and Jamal Murray, already features mid-range shooting from Michael Porter Jr. and Aaron Gordon. Carrington’s mid-range specialty wouldn’t be as utilized in Denver’s system, making a traditional playmaker who can penetrate more effectively a better fit for the backup point guard role.
3. Ryan Dunn: Virginia, SF
While Ryan Dunn is an elite defender, the Nuggets no longer need defensive reinforcements as urgently. With Jokic’s improved defense and the additions of Aaron Gordon, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Christian Braun, and Peyton Watson, Denver ranked in the top 10 in defensive ratings last season. The backup unit needs an offensive boost, which Dunn cannot provide. His offensive limitations mean he wouldn’t fit into Denver’s system.
2. Tyler Kolek: Marquette, PG
Tyler Kolek, a seasoned collegiate player, fits the profile of a Nuggets draft pick. However, the impact of previous experienced draftees like Jalen Pickett and Hunter Tyson has been minimal. Kolek might struggle to find playing time and lacks a high ceiling for development. The Nuggets would benefit more from a younger prospect with greater potential rather than another older, play-now prospect who might not contribute significantly.
1. Zach Edey: Purdue, C
Despite needing a backup center, Zach Edey’s skill set doesn’t align with Denver’s needs. Jokic’s advanced skills in passing and shooting create a high bar for any backup center. Edey’s limited passing and scoring ability outside the paint make him an awkward fit. Denver prefers centers with some passing ability, as seen with past backups like Mason Plumlee and Isaiah Hartenstein. Other options like Kyle Filipowski, Kel’el Ware, Adem Bona, and DaRon Holmes offer more modern and versatile skill sets better suited for the current NBA.
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