What's Happening?
The Denver Nuggets are gearing up for the 2025-26 NBA season with significant roster changes aimed at enhancing their chances of returning to the Finals. Last season, the Nuggets finished with a 50-32
record, placing fourth in the Western Conference, but were eliminated by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the second round of the playoffs. Key offseason additions include Cameron Johnson, Bruce Brown, Tim Hardaway Jr., Jonas Valančiūnas, Curtis Jones, and Tamar Bates. These changes come after the departure of notable players such as Michael Porter Jr., Russell Westbrook, DeAndre Jordan, Dario Šarić, and Vlatko Čančar. Nikola Jokić, widely regarded as one of the best players globally, remains the cornerstone of the team, entering his 11th NBA season. The Nuggets are considered strong contenders, with Jokić being a favorite for the 2025-26 NBA Most Valuable Player award.
Why It's Important?
The roster changes are crucial for the Nuggets as they aim to address weaknesses that have hindered their playoff performance in recent years, particularly the team's performance when Jokić is not on the court. The addition of players like Cameron Johnson and Bruce Brown is expected to bolster the team's defense and shooting capabilities, potentially transforming the Nuggets into a more formidable opponent. The success of these changes could significantly impact the team's ability to compete for the NBA championship, especially in a competitive Western Conference. The Nuggets' ability to maintain a high level of play during non-Jokić minutes will be pivotal in their quest for a title.
What's Next?
As the season progresses, head coach David Adelman will focus on optimizing the lineup to ensure the second unit can hold its own, reducing the reliance on Jokić. The team will need to address questions regarding Jamal Murray's health and performance, the integration of new players like Johnson, and the effectiveness of the backup point guard position. The Nuggets will open their season against the Golden State Warriors on October 23, setting the stage for a challenging campaign where they aim to secure home-court advantage in the playoffs and contend for the championship.
Beyond the Headlines
The Nuggets' strategic roster changes reflect a broader trend in the NBA where teams are increasingly focused on depth and versatility to navigate the rigors of a long season and the playoffs. The emphasis on improving the second unit highlights the importance of having a well-rounded team capable of sustaining high performance even when star players are resting. This approach could influence other teams in the league to prioritize similar strategies, potentially leading to a shift in how teams build their rosters.
