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Denver Nuggets’ 2025 Offseason Playbook: Supporting Jokic While Rebuilding Contenders

NBA access_alarms2025-05-19 15:43:21 visibility15 text_decrease title text_increase

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Table of Contents

The Jokic Equation: Building Around a $276M Superstar

Nikola Jokic's massive contract (5 years/$276 million through 2028) gives Denver both stability and challenges. While putting up MVP numbers (26 points, 12 rebounds, 9 assists last season), the Serbian center needs better help after key defenders like Caldwell-Pope left. The front office must find ways to upgrade the roster despite owing Jokic $62.8 million in the final contract year.

Salary Crunch Reality Check

Denver's financial situation is tight. The trio of Jokic, Jamal Murray ($46M), and Michael Porter Jr. ($38M) will eat up most of the Salary Cap through 2026. With only $18 million to spend, the team must get creative using exceptions like the mid-level ($5.6M) to chase role players who can shoot and defend.

<a href=https://www.ajfpt.com/tags-DenverNuggets-0.html target=_blank class=infotextkey>Denver Nuggets</a>’ 2025 Offseason Blueprint: Balancing Jokic’s Prime with Roster Reinvention

Trading Time: Porter Jr. in the Spotlight

Michael Porter Jr.'s scoring ability (19 points, 41% from deep) makes him valuable but expensive. Teams like the Clippers might offer defensive upgrades for him, though Denver would likely need to include draft picks - something they're short on after previous deals. Other trade pieces include Zeke Nnaji's expiring $8M deal and Dario Šarić's team-friendly contract.

Developing Homegrown Talent

With no 2025 first-round pick, the Nuggets need Christian Braun and Peyton Watson to step up. Braun showed promise last season (14 points, 38% from three) while Watson brings defensive energy. The season-ending injury to rookie Daron Holmes II shows the risks of relying on young players.

Free Agency Shopping List

Denver should target:

3-and-D Wings: Veterans like Gary Payton II who can guard multiple positions

Mobile Bigs: Energy players like Jalen Smith to backup Jokic

Re-signing Russell Westbrook makes sense if he accepts a bench role, but his defense remains a concern.

Coaching Continuity

After promoting interim coach David Adelman (14-4 playoff record), Denver keeps its fast-paced system. Adelman's defensive tweaks and player development focus will be crucial for maximizing the roster.

Western Conference Arms Race

The Thunder's 68-win season and Lakers adding Luka Dončić raise the stakes. Denver needs better perimeter defense to handle stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander while maintaining offensive firepower.

Closing Window for Glory

With Jokic entering his prime and Murray's injury history, Denver must act now. Trading Porter Jr. for defensive help or using exceptions to add toughness could keep them in contention. Front office decisions this summer will shape the team's legacy for years to come.