Pre-Draft Outlook
Championship contenders rarely have use for Draft picks because these teams are choosing low in the first round, if at all, and incoming rookies rarely find high places in the rotation. That said, the Nuggets have done better than most. Christian Braun contributed almost immediately two years ago, and Julian Strawther and Peyton Watson had moments, though mainly confined to the regular season.
The Way To Go
Denver has a decision to make on veteran starter Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who can (and is expected to) opt out this summer. Do they re-sign him to a somewhat rich extension, or look for his replacement right away? If they can’t get help through a trade or free agency — and their cap situation will make it tough on both accounts — they do have the 28th pick. Kevin McCullar, a 23-year-old with two-way skills from Kansas, would bring maturity and size at 6-foot-6.
— Shaun Powell
Here’s a quick look at Denver’s current roster entering the Draft:
Under Contract
G: Christian Braun
G: Jamal Murray
G: Jalen Pickett
G: Julian Strawther
G: Payton Watson
F: Aaron Gordon
F: Michael Porter Jr.
F: Hunter Tyson
F/C: Zeke Nnaji
C: Nikola Jokic
Free Agents
G: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
G: Collin Gillespie
G: Reggie Jackson
F: Vlatko Cancar
F/G: Justin Holiday
F: Braxton Key
C: Jay Huff
C: DeAndre Jordan