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The Denver Nuggets succumbed to the Golden State Warriors in five games of the first round series in the 2022 NBA Playoffs. Nikola Jokic showcased another sensational five-game run to prove his MVP case, but not having Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. for almost the whole season put a huge dent on their legitimate chances this season.
As the front office is likely to run it back with the main core for the foreseeable future, they must still fill in glaring holes on their lineup for them to be a consistent championship contender. Having another three-and-D wing who could help Aaron Gordon and Jeff Green in that role would be an instrumental addition for them. Additionally, having a physical and athletic four or five who could play with or without Jokic would be a massive for the Nuggets. Thus, here are the names they must keep an eye on for the offseason.
Nuggets 2022 NBA Free Agency Targets
Robert Covington
As a squad who already has tremendous offensive firepowers on their team, defense is the facet wherein they must improve immensely. Adding Gordon, Je Green, and JaMychal Green were due to their versatility and defensive prowess, but it has still been severely lacking over the last few seasons. Covington will provide a massive impact as one of the best help defenders in the association.
Even on the offensive end of the floor, Covington will bring the necessary floor spacing that Jokic and Murray would openly welcome into their team. Furthermore, the Nuggets will already be over the cap next season, so they may only add assets who will not cost them a ton of excess tax penalty. Covington could be slotted into the mid-level exception as an impactful second unit forward for coach Michael Malone.
Chris Boucher
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As someone who fits perfectly into the culture and system of the Toronto Raptors, Chris Boucher may likely be resigned by the organization. If somehow the Raptors decide to move on and acquire other new bodies, Boucher could also be an individual who could be utilized at the four or five as a fantastic defender and floor spacer for the Nuggets.
Boucher would probably be on the second unit as well, but the difference of having him instead of Mason Plumlee or DeMarcus Cousins is his ability and skillfulness to play with Jokic. He provides the needed height, rebounding, and depth for the bench of Denver. Additionally, the player development approach of the Nuggets organization will be incredible for Boucher who has huge potential of becoming a terrific big man in this league.
Bruce Brown
The first round series of the Brooklyn Nets against the Boston Celtics would be the perfect indicator on how Bruce Brown would be an integral wing in the rotation of the Nuggets. With Brown on the fold, Barton could return as the catalyst of the second unit, so the balance of offense and defense with Murray, Porter Jr. and Brown would be spectacular for Denver.
Brown could also be an option to be slotted into the mid-level exception if the front office prioritizes adding a two-way wing. As one of the main weaknesses of Brown's arsenal, shooting has been a priority in his individual development as his man are less likely to help off the corner and leave him open constantly. As the shooting starts becoming a strength for him, Jokic would be an excellent passer for Brown's off-ball movement through back cuts and fake hand-offs.
For a Denver team who already has a stable and robust system, the players they must add are plug-and-play men who will not mess with the chemistry of the roster. These three individuals are the epitome of just filling in their roles every game and stepping up to the plate as well if some key guys are missing. This will be an intriguing offseason for the Nuggets and their fans must be excited for these next two months in preparation for next year.
