The Denver Nuggets’ 2024–25 season concluded with a disheartening 125–93 defeat to the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 7 of the Western Conference Semifinals, marking their second consecutive second-round exit. Despite Nikola Jokic’s commendable performance, posting 20 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists in the decisive game, the team was overwhelmed by the Thunder’s depth and energy.
Jokic candidly reflected on the loss, basically admitting that the roster isn’t complete and changes will be necessary. Sure, injuries further hampered the Nuggets’ playoff run.
Forward Aaron Gordon played through a Grade 2 hamstring strain in Game 7, contributing 8 points and 11 rebounds in 25 minutes, despite Jokic advising him to sit out to prevent further injury. Such challenges underscore the team’s reliance on its core players and the pressing need to bolster the bench. Quite frankly, only Jokic and Gordon have played their way into being untouchable.
Still, looking ahead, the Nuggets face significant offseason decisions. Reports suggest the organization is considering parting ways with forward Michael Porter Jr., citing concerns over his inconsistent postseason contributions and the financial implications of his substantial contract ($38,333,050 and $40,806,150 over the next two seasons).
Additionally, the team lacks a 2025 NBA Draft pick, limiting opportunities to infuse young talent through the draft. With Jokic and Gordon firmly under contract until 2026-27 at least, Denver’s front office has to make the right moves this summer, and that means likely moving on from key players, including Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr.
A Blockbuster Trade For Trae Young By Saying Goodbye To Jamal Murray
Proposed Trade Details
Denver Nuggets Receive: Trae Young
Atlanta Hawks Receive: Jamal Murray, Julian Strawther, 2031 First-Round Pick, 2026 First-Round Pick Swap
In a bold move, the Denver Nuggets consider trading Jamal Murray for Trae Young to reshape their backcourt completely. Murray, a key contributor to Denver’s 2023 championship, averaged 21.4 points, 6.0 assists, and 3.9 rebounds over 67 games in the 2024–25 season.
However, his playoff performance, while solid, highlighted the need for a more consistent offensive engine alongside Nikola Jokic. Murray posted 21.8 points and 5.2 assists per game over 14 games in the postseason, and is under contract until 2027-28 ($50,422,680, $54,456,494, and $58,490,308 over the next three seasons).
Trae Young, leading the league with 11.6 assists per game, offers elite playmaking that could elevate Denver’s offense. His ability to orchestrate plays and stretch defenses complements Jokic’s versatile game. While Young’s 4.7 turnovers per game raise concerns, the potential offensive synergy with Jokic presents an enticing prospect for the Nuggets.
This trade would signify a shift in Denver’s focus, prioritizing offense over defensive stability. Young’s arrival could rejuvenate the Nuggets’ scoring opportunities and integrating his style with the team’s existing framework would be crucial for success.
Finally Moving Michael Porter Jr. And Getting Zach LaVine In Return
Proposed Trade Details
Denver Nuggets Receive: Zach LaVine
Chicago Bulls Receive: Michael Porter Jr., Zeke Nnaji, Hunter Tyson, 2028 First-Round Pick Swap
The Nuggets can now explore trading Michael Porter Jr. for Zach LaVine to enhance their wing scoring. Porter Jr. contributed 18.2 points and 7.0 rebounds per game with a 50.4% field goal percentage in the 2024–25 season. However, his inconsistent performance and injury history have prompted Denver to consider alternatives.
LaVine, averaging 23.3 points with a 51.1% field goal percentage, brings athleticism and scoring prowess to the Nuggets. His ability to create shots and finish plays could alleviate the offensive burden on Jokic. While LaVine’s defense has been questioned, his offensive contributions could provide the spark Denver needs.
Acquiring LaVine would require the Nuggets to address defensive gaps elsewhere, but the offensive upgrade might justify the trade. Integrating LaVine into Denver’s system would necessitate adjustments, but the potential for a more potent offense is evident.
A Clever And Under-The-Radar Trade For Marcus Smart
Proposed Trade Details
Denver Nuggets Receive: Marcus Smart
Washington Wizards Receive: Peyton Watson, DaRon Holmes, Dario Saric
Targeting Marcus Smart offers the Nuggets a chance to bolster their perimeter defense and leadership. Smart averaged 9.0 points, 3.2 assists, and 2.1 rebounds with a 39.3% field goal percentage in the 2024–25 season. His defensive tenacity and experience could provide stability to Denver’s backcourt because he was a former Defensive Player of the Year and is hungry to play for a title-contender again.
Smart’s ability to guard multiple positions and his playoff experience make him a valuable asset for a team aiming for deep postseason runs. His presence could instill a defensive mindset across the roster, as he did with the Boston Celtics in 2022.
While Smart’s offensive contributions are modest and can be streaky, his impact on team dynamics and defense could be the intangible asset Denver needs. Acquiring him would be a strategic move to enhance the Nuggets’ championship aspirations.
A Blockbuster Offseason Plan That Creates A Title-Contending Depth Chart
New Starting Lineup: Trae Young, Marcus Smart, Zach LaVine, Aaron Gordon, Nikola Jokic
The new and projected starting lineup, Trae Young, Marcus Smart, Zach LaVine, Aaron Gordon, and Nikola Jokic, will be much better prepared for the playoffs than it was this year. For starters, Jamal Murray is an extremely clutch player, but Trae Young is simply more talented.
Marcus Smart will play a similar role to Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, and Zach LaVine is a massive upgrade over Porter Jr. in terms of shot creation. Gordon and Jokic will remain the defensive and offensive stalwarts, respectively, along with providing continuity for a team under next season’s head coach.
The bench, featuring Christian Braun and a selection of seasoned veterans like Russell Westbrook (should he opt in to the $3,468,960 player option), provides depth and experience.
The rest of the depth chart can be filled with veterans who will hit the free agent market, including Guerschon Yabusele, Spencer Dinwiddie, Amir Coffey, Steven Adams, Jake LaRavia, Taurean Prince, and even Chris Paul. These veterans and minimum-contract players might relish the chance to compete for an NBA title.
This overhaul addresses the shortcomings that led to the Nuggets’ early playoff exit in 2025 and positions them as formidable contenders in the Western Conference. With these additions, Denver aims to maximize Jokic’s prime years and pursue another championship run.
