The latest news out of Denver proves the Nuggets can't catch a break
By Tyler Key
DaRon Holmes II was drafted 22nd overall in the 2024 NBA Draft after the Denver Nuggets traded the 28th pick and three 2nd round picks to the Phoenix Suns in order to bring him to the Mile High City. The 6’10” big man from Dayton looked poised to be a part of the rotation for the Nuggets immediately, likely slotting in at the backup power forward spot. Unfortunately, during his first ever NBA game at Summer League, the worst possible scenario happened; a torn Achilles.
Denver Nuggets No. 22 overall pick DaRon Holmes II has suffered a torn right Achilles tendon, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. He’s expected to miss the 2024-25 season. Devastating blow for one of the Nuggets’ promising young pieces. pic.twitter.com/05iQQEAZYV
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 13, 2024
Not only was this devastating due to the immediacy and unexpectedness of the injury, but also because of how well Holmes II was performing in his first ever NBA game. In 26 minutes, before suffering his gruesome non-contact injury, he recorded 11 points, 7 rebounds, and a steal.
Additionally, his three-point shot looked smooth and effective as he nailed all three attempts. Holmes II never sustained a serious injury in three years at Dayton, playing 33+ games every collegiate season, but his first NBA season is now officially over before it ever really started.
Denver will now be forced to turn to other options at the backup power forward spot. Recently signed Dario Saric can plug in some minutes there, but will primarily act as the backup center. Meanwhile DeAndre Jordan will enter the upcoming season at age 36 and is clearly just a reserve option at center. This leaves the Nuggets with four options at backup PF for this upcoming season...