The Denver Nuggets were eliminated in the first round of the 2022 NBA Postseason by the Golden State Warriors. While they would have liked to advance further, all things considered, this was a pretty good season by Denver.
Nikola Jokic was a one-man show for virtually the entire season as Jamal Murray tore his ACL last season and didn’t get back on the court. Michael Porter Jr. lasted only nine games, fighting through a back ailment before he underwent a procedure and was sidelined the remainder of the season as well.
Jokic was rewarded for his efforts as he took home the MVP award for the second consecutive season. But, he would likely trade one of those awards in for some more success in the postseason.
Now, it is time for Denver to reciprocate that effort and start upgrading the roster around him. As shared by Matt Moore of the Action Network, the Nuggets are ready to do just that this offseason, as two key rotation players have been mentioned as potential trade pieces.
“Instead of the usual period of trying to gain footing, Denver is expected to hit the offseason running. Both Will Barton and Monte Morris are believed to be available in trade talks from league sources outside Denver, while internally Denver is reciting a plan for aggressive moves to build a true contender around Nikola Jokic with Jamal Murray and MPJ returning for opening night.”
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Both Will Barton and Monte Morris have been integral parts of the Denver Nuggets’ rotation for years. Barton has been with the team since 2015 when he was acquired in a trade with the Portland Trail Blazers. He is on an expiring deal and will cost $14.3 million next season, a relative bargain based on what he brings to the team.
Consistent scoring, as he has averaged 14 points per game during his Denver tenure with good 3-point shooting, can be expected from Barton. He also chips in five rebounds and 3.3 assists per game.
Morris stepped into the starting lineup this past season with Murray sidelined and handled himself well. He averaged a career-high 12.6 points per game to go along with 4.4 assists. The Iowa State product has knocked down 39.4 percent of his 3-point attempts in his career and proved this season he can get the job done as either a backup or starter.
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With Nah’Shon “Bones” Hyland taking on a bigger role toward the end of his rookie season, the Denver Nuggets could be open to moving Morris and giving the backup point guard job to him. It could be difficult for Michael Malone to find both minutes along with a healthy Murray next season.
