Denver Nuggets Shake Up Roster with Key Trades This Offseason

The Denver Nuggets were going bold this offseason! Or, as they did during the summer of 2022, when they traded Michael Porter Jr., and then acquired key rotation players Cam Johnson and Bruce Brown. This string of moves indicates Denver’s desire and determination to tinker with their roster as they head into training camp and the regular season.

Then there is Michael Porter Jr., the future star of the Nuggets. He is now off to the Sacramento Kings in a trade that adds to Sacramento’s growing flexibility for the long-term. Now that Porter’s expiring contract is off their books, the Kings receive additional cap space. This major boost of flexibility opens up the opportunity for them to make a big splash in the free-agent market.

Along with Porter, the Nuggets traded Dario Saric to Sacramento. Saric’s play as a center in Denver had a difficult experience establishing his game in Denver. He only averaged 3.5 points per game and shot under 40% from the field during his time with the team. His sharp decline in play caused him to fall out of the rotation, subsequently making his expiring deal less attractive to the Nuggets.

Denver’s acquisitions include Cam Johnson, currently a wing for the Brooklyn Nets, who brings versatility and scoring power to the Nuggets’ lineup. Johnson’s long range shooting will certainly make the Storm’s offensive attack more dynamic. At the same time, Bruce Brown returns to the Nuggets after playing a huge role outside of the starters’ rotation in recent seasons. His defensive acumen and high motor will serve to improve Denver’s second unit, which has plenty of scoring.

The deal brought Sacramento veteran center Jonas Valanciunas. At 33 years old, Valanciunas would represent experience and stability to the Nuggets’ frontcourt. He is signed for two more years. He’ll make in the neighborhood of around $20 million and will provide Denver a highly dependable source of both points and boards.

The offseason moves reflect Denver’s commitment to enhancing their roster while navigating the complexities of player contracts and salary cap implications. Together, the infusion of new talent and experience should give the Nuggets a shot at being each of the West’s most ominous challengers next season.