Denver's search for perimeter defense and athletic versatility could lead them to the 6-8 Longhorn wing, a dynamic two-way prospect ideally suited to complement Nikola Jokić.
Dailyn Swain’s first season at Texas helped strengthen his NBA outlook, and one Western Conference contender is already being mentioned as a potential landing spot for the versatile Longhorn forward.
In a recent article from Bleacher Report's Zach Buckley, he picks three players who each NBA team could realistically target in the draft. For the Denver Nuggets, he thinks that they could go after Swain.
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"The Nuggets might need a Peyton Watson replacement—his restricted free agency could get pricey," Buckley writes. "But even if they don't, they have a general need for more athleticism and defense on the perimeter. Swain provides both, plus he's a creative finisher with shooting upside."
After transferring to Texas from Xavier, Swain became an important piece for Sean Miller’s roster.
The 6-8 wing brought versatility on both ends of the floor, averaging 17 points, 7.5 rebounds and 3.6 assists while helping Texas remain competitive throughout the season. His athleticism, defensive flexibility and ability to impact multiple areas of the game have kept him firmly in NBA draft conversations.
Bleacher Report connected Swain to Denver largely because of the type of role he could eventually fill next to Nikola Jokić. The Nuggets may need additional wing depth in the future, especially if retaining Peyton Watson becomes difficult financially.
One of the more encouraging developments during Swain’s season at Texas was the continued growth in his offensive game. While defense and athleticism were already considered strengths, he showed more confidence attacking off the dribble and creating opportunities around the basket.
After not being a shooter in his first two college seasons, he shot just under three attempts per game with the Longhorns, and she shot a solid enough 34 percent.
Denver’s system could be a strong fit for a player with Swain’s skill set. The Nuggets have consistently surrounded Jokić with smart, active players who defend, cut without the ball and make quick decisions offensively. Swain’s versatility and willingness to do the smaller things that contribute to winning could make him valuable in that environment.
There is still plenty of time before the 2026 NBA Draft, but Swain remains an intriguing prospect whose versatility could make him a strong fit for playoff-caliber teams looking for athletic two-way wings.