2 Early Nuggets NBA Free Agency Targets in 2024 Offseason
After clinching an NBA Championship in 2023, the Denver Nuggets fell short of defending their title, losing to the Minnesota Timberwolves in a grueling seven-game second-round series in the 2024 playoffs. With their season concluded, the Nuggets are now focusing on the offseason, aiming to strengthen their roster for another championship run in the 2024-25 season. While their core players will remain, and their roster is solid, they need to address a few gaps. Navigating their limited cap space will be crucial.
Here are two early free agents the Nuggets should target in the 2024 offseason:
Moritz Wagner
The Nuggets might pursue Moritz Wagner, depending on whether the Orlando Magic exercise his $8 million team option. Given the Magic’s depth in big men, there’s a chance Wagner could become available. While Wagner might be slightly out of Denver’s price range, he would be a valuable addition.
Nikola Jokic is undoubtedly the starting center, but Denver lacks a reliable backup. Veteran DeAndre Jordan, the listed backup, played in only 36 games during the 2023-24 season, leading the Nuggets to often run a center-less offense when Jokic was resting. This lack of a solid backup center hurt Denver’s ability to score in the paint, especially in the playoff series against the Timberwolves. Wagner could address this issue. Though some might argue Wagner is too skilled to be a backup, Denver could utilize him alongside Jokic in a dual big-man lineup.
If Wagner is interested in joining a serious contender, the Nuggets’ front office might be able to sign him on a team-friendly contract.
Lonnie Walker IV
The Nuggets’ bench struggled to provide sufficient scoring relief for the starters last season. Signing Lonnie Walker IV could offer the needed scoring boost. Walker, who has played for several teams, has demonstrated the ability to heat up and score effectively. His scoring off the bench would reduce the burden on Jokic and Jamal Murray.
With the Brooklyn Nets last season, Walker averaged 17.4 minutes, 9.7 points, and shot 38.4% from three-point range. While these stats aren’t stellar, Walker could thrive in a championship-caliber team like the Nuggets. He might play a role similar to what Bruce Brown did during Denver’s championship season.
Walker had a cap hit of just over $2 million with the Nets last season. Although the Nets might outbid Denver to keep him, the Nuggets should still consider pursuing him.
These two players could fill crucial gaps and strengthen Denver’s chances for another championship run in the 2024-25 season.
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