Nuggets General Manager Calvin Booth expressed confidence in the team’s ability to adapt if veteran guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope does not return in free agency. Speaking at a press conference following the first round of the draft, Booth acknowledged the nature of free agency and Caldwell-Pope’s unrestricted status, which allows him to explore options with other teams.
“I think we have to look at everything, and the nature of free agency is that he is unrestricted so we can try to bring him back but if he doesn’t want to come back or he chooses to go somewhere else, that’s his prerogative, we’ll have to work with that.”
“But I think we’re prepared to like, plug-and-play, so to speak. I think we look at some of the teams that have been good in the past. They have to find a way to replace fourth and fifth starters, and sixth men off the bench and still keep rolling.”
“It’ll be nice if KCP is back they have a lot of continuity together but I think all and all the stuff I’ve looked at the lineup stuff and everything Christian Braun is one of the best net rating guys in the league as is KCP.”
“So I think if he has to step into the starting lineup, like probably projected I think, you know, we’ll be okay if KCP doesn’t return.”
Booth emphasized the team’s readiness to adjust, highlighting the potential of young player Christian Braun to step up. Despite Caldwell-Pope’s significant contribution to the team, particularly his synergy with league MVP Nikola Jokic, Booth believes Braun is prepared to fill the role.
Braun’s individual net rating for the 2023-24 season was 0.7, while Caldwell-Pope’s was 11.3, largely due to Caldwell-Pope playing alongside Jokic for most of his minutes. In contrast, Braun primarily played with bench lineups.
Booth cited Braun’s performance in high-pressure situations, including his effective defense during the playoffs, as a key indicator of his readiness. Braun was particularly notable in his defense against Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards, where his performance led coach Michael Malone to use him in closing lineups.
Caldwell-Pope, who is expected to decline his $15.4 million player option, has been instrumental to the Nuggets’ success. He averaged 10.1 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists while shooting 46.0% from the field and 40.6% from 3-point range.
Known as one of the best “3 and D” players in the league, Caldwell-Pope’s potential departure could create a significant gap in the team’s lineup. However, the financial implications of re-signing him, given the second tax apron and the subsequent limitations on roster-building, present a challenge for the Nuggets.
Booth acknowledged the difficulty of replacing a player like Caldwell-Pope but remained optimistic about the team’s future. He pointed out the necessity for teams to adapt and replace key players while maintaining competitiveness.
Braun, entering his third season, averaged 7.3 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.6 assists while shooting 46.0% from the field and 38.4% from 3-point range, indicating his potential to effectively transition into a starting role if necessary.
Booth’s comments suggest that while the Nuggets would prefer to retain Caldwell-Pope, they are prepared for his potential departure. The Nuggets’ ability to maintain their competitive edge without Caldwell-Pope will be a significant test of their resilience and adaptability.
As free agency approaches, the Nuggets face the challenge of balancing financial constraints with the need to maintain a championship-caliber roster. Whether Caldwell-Pope stays or goes, the team’s management is focused on ensuring that the Nuggets remain a formidable force in the NBA.
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