The Nuggets may have a roster problem. Not because of talent. Because of money.
Denver already has roughly $213.8 million committed to 10 players next season, pushing past the luxury tax and first apron, with the second apron not far behind. According to Bennett Durando of The Denver Post, that reality could force the front office into moving more than one “starter-level player” just to stay flexible.
That’s where it gets tricky. The Nuggets still have Nikola Jokić in his prime. The goal is to contend, not take a step back. But the math may demand it anyway.
Some moves feel inevitable. Jonas Valančiūnas is widely expected to be gone, with only $2 million guaranteed on his $10 million deal. How Denver handles that — trade, waive or stretch — will be one of the first dominoes.
Then come the tougher calls.
Restricted free agents Peyton Watson and Spencer Jones are due raises, especially Watson, whose market is expected to climb well beyond his $6.5 million qualifying offer. Matching offers sounds good in theory. In practice, it may require clearing real salary first.
Which leads to the core. Jamal Murray, Aaron Gordon and Cameron Johnson all carry sizable deals. Johnson, on an expiring contract, may be the easiest to move. It still might not be enough.
To truly get below the tax, Denver likely has to lose more than one meaningful piece. That’s the dilemma.
Stay aggressive and pay the price. Or trim the roster and risk slipping in a loaded West.
Either way, this isn’t a routine offseason. Not with a title window still open.
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