The Denver Nuggets have had an eventful offseason. The franchise has its sights set on contending in 2022-23 after battling the injury bug over the past few campaigns, and they made some key changes to position themselves better for that run.
Denver traded away Monte Morris and Will Barton who were both impact players in the rotation. DeMarcus Cousins and Facundo Compazzo also remain free agents, although the assumption seems to be they will not be returning to the team. Regardless, the franchise has high expectations for next year.
With that said, here are the grades for their most notable free agent moves thus far.
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Denver Nuggets 2022 NBA Free Agency Grades
Nikola Jokic Max Extension: A+
Perhaps the most notable long-term move was signing Nikola Jokic to a max extension. The reigning back-to-back MVP is the centerpiece for everything the franchise does and their system is almost entirely built around him. Inking the superstar to a five-year, $264 million extension is a wise long-term move for the team.
The fit between Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets has been seamless through his seven years with the organization. It is a win for both sides to have long-term security and now the goal is to surround him with the proper roster. The return of Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. may cut down on the usage of Jokic, but it does not change his importance.
Bruce Brown: A+
In their most notable free-agent signing, the Nuggets signed Bruce Brown to a two-year deal worth $13 million. This is terrific value for a high-quality rotational piece that fits Denver's needs. Brown is an effective cutter who plays hard-nosed defense and will bring toughness to the roster. The 6-foot-4 guard is also an impressive rebounder for his size and a versatile defender.
He had his best season with the Nets last year, averaging 9.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.1 steals per game. While his reputation has been as a poor shooter, Brown shot 40.4% on three-point attempts in 2021-22. He is also an impressive secondary passer which could help take pressure off of Jokic.
The 25-year-old will be a terrific addition to the Nuggets and is sure to make a positive addition to the rotation.
DeAndre Jordan: F
In the midst of the flurry of opening news as free agency began, there was a surprising move made by the Nuggets. Just seconds into the start of free agency, it was announced that DeAndre Jordan agreed to a minimum deal with the team. At a point in time, the big man was a high-quality NBA center. Jordan is a three-time member of the All-NBA teams, a two-time rebounding champion, and a two-time All-Defensive team member. Unfortunately for the Nuggets, these days are well behind him.
The 33-year-old was unable to produce at an adequate level during his last three NBA stops. The Los Angeles Lakers elected to cut Jordan last season and he ended up on the Philadelphia 76ers' roster. In his 16 games with the team, Jordan looked slow-footed and ineffective. He ultimately lost the job to Paul Reed heading into the playoffs.
While the backup center is oftentimes an overlooked position in the NBA, the Nuggets are in a unique position due to how important Nikola Jokic is. DeMarcus Cousins made a very positive impact with the franchise last season and Jordan is set to be a major step-down. While it is possible he could find a second wind in his career, it seems more likely the Nuggets will be in search of a replacement backup big man during the season.
Overall it has been a very positive offseason for Denver, but relying on Jordan to serve any type of rotational minutes would be a massive mistake.
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