The Denver Nuggets could be headed for big offseason changes, but who should they try to keep?
After a disappointing season that saw the Denver Nuggets lose in the first round in six games to the Minnesota Timberwolves, the Nuggets could be in store for big changes in the offseason.
Nuggets executive Josh Kroenke previously stated that, outside of trading Nikola Jokic, everything was on the table for Denver as they go into next season.
Denver has failed to get past the second round since winning the NBA championship in 2023 and have had the same core three of Jokic, Jamal Murray, and Aaron Gordon since acquiring Gordon in 2021.
Though everyone might be on the table, who should remain a Nugget?
3. DaRon Holmes
Holmes was drafted 22nd overall in 2024, but missed the entire 2024-25 season after suffering an Achilles tear during summer league.
He played limited minutes in 2025-26, averaging just 8.4 minutes per game. It's tough to get a real read on his game given his limited in-game action, but his per 36 minutes and per 100 possession numbers are encouraging.
Coming out of college, he was an excellent scorer with defensive versatility. Rather than giving up on him one year into his career, Denver would be wise to hold on for at least another season to see what they have.
2. Peyton Watson
Watson is a restricted free agent, so he wouldn't be in any immediate trade talks until Denver figures out his contract situation.
Regardless of the situation, Denver needs to do what they can to get him under contract and keep him there for the foreseeable future.
Watson took a big leap this past season, averaging 14.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.1 assists on 49% from the field and 41% from three.
The hamstring injury that kept him out of the entire playoffs certainly cost Denver, as they didn't have another player who could create offense for himself or others outside of Jokic or Murray.
Watson will be 24 when next season starts, and Denver needs youth.
1. Nikola Jokic
An obvious answer, but as Kroenke said, everything is on the table outside of Jokic, and that should be the case.
Denver can't afford to leave any stone unturned as they explore options to get them back over the hump, and no one on the roster should feel 100% security outside of Jokic.
Obviously, the team isn't trading the three-time MVP and the player who has finished first or second in MVP voting in each of the last six seasons. He's the most impactful offensive player in the league and there is no world where he plays for another team next season.
