The Denver Nuggets are now eyeing potential trade targets to bolster their roster for another championship run. As the offseason buzz begins, the Nuggets’ front office is meticulously evaluating their needs and the market to find the perfect additions. Among the players on their radar are sharpshooter Seth Curry, versatile big man Kelly Olynyk, and rising wing Corey Kispert. These players could provide the depth and skill set needed to maintain their status as title contenders.
The push for change remains a significant narrative for the Nuggets this offseason. Entering the 2023 season, the team’s strategy was to develop a young bench through the draft to ensure long-term sustainability under the new salary cap. However, the season’s disappointing conclusion might prompt the Nuggets to rethink their strategy.
The team faces limited realistic options this offseason. Still, the focus will likely be on retaining Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and making minor adjustments to bolster the bench and enhance depth. Sure, there’s a possibility of pursuing a significant trade or a roster-balancing move involving Michael Porter Jr. However, such a drastic action seems improbable at this point.
Here we will look at the three players whom the Denver Nuggets can consider early trade targets in 2024 NBA offseason.
Adding Seth Curry
It’s reasonable to speculate whether the Nuggets will pursue more shooters this summer, especially if KCP or Reggie Jackson, or both, opt out of their player options and leave in free agency.
Should the Nuggets seek additional shooting, Seth Curry would be a logical target. A career 43.1 percent shooter from deep, Curry offers more than just long-range prowess. He’s a capable scorer inside the arc and a secondary playmaker. At 33, he seems out of place on a rebuilding Charlotte Hornets squad, potentially making him an affordable trade option.
Trading for Corey Kispert
Corey Kispert has shown promise as an NBA player, but it’s been difficult to assess his true potential amid the instability in Washington. The Wizards have lacked consistency during Kispert’s tenure and appear to be heading toward a genuine rebuild with a new front office.
Yes, the Wizards are likely to exercise Kispert’s team option. However, he may not feature in their long-term plans. They might consider trading him as they focus on even younger talent. For the Nuggets, Kispert, at 25, represents an ideal blend of youth and skill. As a true sharpshooter with defensive capabilities, he would inject fresh energy into Denver’s lineup.
Kispert could thrive on a team like the Nuggets, surrounded by elite offensive talent. This environment would allow him to hone his strengths and capitalize on open opportunities. Whether starting or coming off the bench, Kispert could seamlessly fit into the Nuggets’ rotation, potentially making players like KCP or MPJ more expendable. Shooting over 38 percent from three on six attempts per game, the 6’7 Kispert would be a valuable asset for Denver if the Wizards are willing to trade.
Acquiring Kelly Olynyk
The Nuggets need to secure one or two more dependable veterans off their bench to keep their championship window open. Kelly Olynyk could be an ideal fit as a backup.
Olynyk’s addition would provide much-needed rest for Jokić, who logged a career-high 34.6 minutes per game during the regular season and 40.2 in the playoffs. Known as one of the best passing big men in the NBA, Olynyk would allow Denver to maintain their offensive schemes even when Jokić is off the court. Last season, Olynyk averaged 9.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and shot 38.7 percent from three.
The Nuggets’ limited draft picks and status as a second-apron tax team complicate their ability to make significant trades. However, acquiring a player like Olynyk, even if it requires a major roster adjustment, would provide invaluable depth behind Jokić.
Looking Ahead
As the Nuggets navigate the 2024 offseason, the potential acquisition of Seth Curry, Kelly Olynyk, and Corey Kispert could address critical gaps in their roster. Curry’s elite shooting, Olynyk’s versatility, and Kispert’s promising two-way potential each offer unique advantages that could propel Denver to the next level. The front office’s ability to secure these players will be pivotal in maintaining their competitive edge in a highly contested Western Conference.
By adding these players, the Nuggets would not only improve their depth and versatility but also send a strong message to the league about their intent to remain a dominant force. As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on Denver’s moves, eagerly anticipating how these potential additions could shape the team’s future and their quest to recover the title and retain NBA glory.
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