Denver Nuggets: 2016 Offseason Grades

Re-Signing D.A.

All of the Nuggets’ new additions came through the 2016 NBA Draft, but that’s not to say Denver’s front office had nothing to do once free agency rolled around.

Although the Dwyane Wade fit made no sense from a positional fit or from the perspective of the Nuggets’ team goals for the 2016-17 season, the front office would’ve liked to haul in his star power — remember, Denver was dead last in home attendance last year — and his locker room charisma for the younger players.

D-Wade never materialized, but the Nuggets had already retained some of their veteran leadership by re-signing Darrell Arthur to a three-year, $23 million extension. That deal looks like mere peanuts compared to some of this summer’s more exuberant contracts, especially since he opted out of the final year of his contract ($2.9 million) and many predicted a larger pay raise.

For those who haven’t watched much of the Memphis Grizzlies or Denver Nuggets over the last few years, Darrell Arthur probably isn’t the most well-known commodity. But he’s a hard-working defender who shot 38.5 percent from three-point range last season and is one of the more underrated role players on the roster.

Arthur went on the record saying he wanted to stay in Denver because of the developing culture, he didn’t want to be traded at last year’s trade deadline, and his positive influence over the younger guys will help foster a winning mentality for the future.

How much playing time he earns in such a crowded frontcourt rotation remains to be seen, but even if his contributions amount to nothing more than spot minutes and helping the younger guys develop good habits, Arthur will be well worth his $7.7 million annual salary.

Grade: A-

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