As the Denver Nuggets’ 2019-20 season hangs in limbo, it’s time to examine which free agents will be retained this summer.
The Denver Nuggets have much to be proud of, completing one of the faster turnarounds in NBA history after narrowly missing the postseason in 2017-18. The squad was poised for home-court advantage in the playoffs for the second straight season when play was suspended.
Superstar Nikola Jokic is averaging 20.2 points, 10.2 rebounds and 6.9 assists per game this season, connecting on 52.8 percent of his field goal attempts. He’s proven to elevate the play of teammates, and is a fine foundation to build upon.
Jamal Murray is averaging 18.8 points and 3.9 assists on a career-high 45.5 percent shooting. He’s shown himself to be a lethal second scorer and runs a strong pick-and-roll with Jokic.
Will Barton has strung together a strong campaign, averaging 15.1 points and 6.3 rebounds per contest as a solid scorer and play-maker. Meanwhile, Gary Harris is struggling offensively this season, but has proven himself a shutdown defender against many elite guards.
Off the bench, Monte Morris continues to be one the league’s more reliable backup point guards, averaging 8.4 points, 3.5 assists and just 0.7 turnovers per game. Michael Porter Jr. flashes tantalizing potential, averaging 12.3 points on 52.2 percent shooting throughout January, the stretch in which he was most utilized.
These six players are under contract next season, and each can expect a significant role in 2020-21. As for the Nuggets, it’s great to have this returning core to build around, especially in light of the recent success.
Now for the free agents…
The following players are unrestricted and eligable to walk this summer: Paul Millsap, Jerami Grant, Mason Plumlee and Torrey Craig.
Let’s examine these players’ worth, and how each potential departure affects the squad.