Nuggets Unveil Five Key Lineup Possibilities for Upcoming Season

New Additions Promise Enhanced Rotational Flexibility

The Denver Nuggets are poised to showcase a more dynamic array of on-court combinations this season, thanks to strategic offseason acquisitions. Beat writer Vinny Benedetto of the Denver Gazette highlights five potential lineups designed to leverage the team’s evolving roster.

Reinforcing the Starting Five

Denver’s tried-and-true starting unit, a dominant force in recent years, is set for a subtle alteration. Expect Cam Johnson to step into the starting role alongside Jamal Murray, Christian Braun, Aaron Gordon, and Nikola Jokic. This change is anticipated to maintain the team’s offensive prowess, even as they navigate potential defensive adjustments following Michael Porter Jr.‘s departure.

Exploring Two-Big Formations

In an NBA increasingly embracing dual-big lineups, the Nuggets now possess a more viable option. The addition of Jonas Valanciunas provides coach David Adelman with a capable partner for Jokic when facing teams that deploy multiple traditional bigs. While defensive responsibilities on the perimeter remain a consideration, this tactical approach offers valuable strategic depth.

Strengthening the Bench’s Impact

The minutes when Jokic is off the floor have historically presented challenges for Denver. The acquisition of Valanciunas is expected to bolster the team’s performance during these stretches. The bench unit is further strengthened by the experience of Bruce Brown and Tim Hardaway Jr., with newcomers like Jalen Pickett, Julian Strawther, Peyton Watson, and DaRon Holmes II vying for reserve roles. A predicted second unit features Brown, Strawther, Hardaway, Watson, and Valanciunas, aiming to provide offensive spacing and defensive tenacity.

Leveraging Murray’s Playmaking

Maintaining offensive momentum in Jokic‘s absence continues to be a priority. Murray remains the team’s most consistent offensive catalyst during those periods. A lineup featuring Murray, Brown, Hardaway, Watson, and Valanciunas could be deployed to maximize offensive efficiency, particularly in a nine-man rotation.

Investing in Future Talent

When games are well in hand, opportunities will arise for the Nuggets to showcase their emerging talent. Younger players like Pickett, Strawther, Holmes, Hunter Tyson, and two-way players such as Tamar Bates, Spencer Jones, and Curtis Jones are expected to receive significant playing time.

Nuggets’ Iconic Jersey Return Celebrated

A welcome sartorial decision sees the return of Denver’s beloved black skyline jerseys. These iconic threads, featuring the city’s recognizable silhouette against the Rocky Mountains, offer a distinctive visual identity. They stand in stark contrast to the more conventional home and away designs, and last season’s less impactful alternate jerseys.