3 Trades For The Denver Nuggets With The Lakers, Blazers, And Nets To Replace Kentavious Caldwell-Pope

The Denver Nuggets are facing a significant challenge after losing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who recently signed with the Orlando Magic . Caldwell-Pope was a crucial part of Denver's defense, providing perimeter defense and three-point shooting. To address this gap, the Nuggets have signed Russell Westbrook as a free agent, adding a dynamic playmaker to their roster. However, they still need a reliable wing defender to replace Caldwell-Pope's impact. Here are three potential trades with the Lakers, Blazers, and Nets to help the Nuggets find a suitable replacement and bolster their championship aspirations.

Acquiring Jarred Vanderbilt From The Lakers

Nuggets receive: Jarred Vanderbilt

Lakers receive: Peyton Watson, Julian Strawther, 2026 second-round pick

The Denver Nuggets are exploring options to replace the defensive capabilities lost with Kentavious Caldwell-Pope's departure to the Orlando Magic. One viable target is Jarred Vanderbilt from the Los Angeles Lakers . Vanderbilt is a versatile defender, known for his ability to guard multiple positions and provide high energy on the court. Last season, he averaged 5.2 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game, demonstrating his value as a defensive asset.

Vanderbilt's name has surfaced in trade rumors , especially given the Lakers' recent roster struggles. The Lakers, without notable free agents and looking to become a contender, might be open to moving Vanderbilt for the right package. The Nuggets could capitalize on this by offering Peyton Watson and Julian Strawther, along with a 2026 second-round pick.

Peyton Watson, a young and promising player, has shown potential with his athleticism and defensive instincts. Julian Strawther, a recent draft pick, adds value as a sharpshooter with significant upside. The inclusion of a future second-round pick sweetens the deal, providing the Lakers with assets to build upon or use in future trades.

For the Nuggets, acquiring Vanderbilt would immediately address their defensive needs. His versatility and hustle on the defensive end would fill the void left by Caldwell-Pope, ensuring that Denver maintains its defensive intensity. Vanderbilt’s ability to guard wings and bigs alike makes him an invaluable addition, especially in a conference loaded with versatile forwards and centers.

The Lakers, on the other hand, would benefit from the addition of Watson and Strawther. Watson’s development trajectory suggests he could become a reliable wing defender, while Strawther’s shooting prowess adds depth to their perimeter scoring. The future second-round pick gives the Lakers flexibility, either as a future trade asset or to select another promising young player.

In summary, this trade benefits both teams by addressing their specific needs and enhancing their roster strengths. For the Nuggets, bringing in Jarred Vanderbilt could be the key move to solidify their defensive lineup and continue their quest for championship contention.

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Matisse Thybulle Could Be The Answer

Nuggets receive: Matisse Thybulle

Blazers receive: Zeke Nnaji, DaRon Holmes, 2026 second-round pick

Matisse Thybulle from the Portland Trail Blazers could be the perfect fit for the Nuggets. Thybulle is widely regarded as one of the top wing defenders in the NBA, known for his ability to guard multiple positions and disrupt the opposing team's offense. Last season, Thybulle averaged 5.4 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game, demonstrating his impact on the defensive end.

Acquiring Thybulle would provide the Nuggets with a player who excels in creating turnovers and defending the perimeter, essential traits for maintaining a strong defense in the competitive Western Conference. Thybulle's ability to lock down elite scorers would be invaluable for Denver, helping them strengthen their defensive rotations.

In exchange, the Nuggets would send Zeke Nnaji, DaRon Holmes, and a 2026 second-round pick to the Blazers. Nnaji, who averaged 3.2 points and 2.2 rebounds per game last season, offers potential as a versatile forward. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and provide energy off the bench makes him a valuable asset. DaRon Holmes, a promising rookie, brings size and athleticism, further enhancing Portland's young core.

The Blazers, looking to build around their young talent, would benefit from acquiring Nnaji and Holmes. These young players, along with the future second-round pick, align with Portland's strategy of accumulating assets and developing their roster for the future. The 2026 second-round pick adds further value, giving the Blazers flexibility in future trades or draft decisions.

For the Nuggets, adding Thybulle would address their immediate need for a defensive specialist on the wing. His presence would allow the Nuggets to match up better against the top wing scorers in the league, improving their overall defensive efficiency. This trade would help Denver solidify their status as contenders, while Portland gains young talent and future assets to support their long-term rebuild.

A Good Replacement With Finney-Smith

Nuggets receive: Dorian Finney-Smith

Nets receive: Zeke Nnaji, 2026 pick swap

The Brooklyn Nets' ongoing roster reshuffle presents a prime opportunity for the Denver Nuggets to acquire Dorian Finney-Smith. Known for his defensive versatility and perimeter defense, Finney-Smith averaged 8.5 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.6 assists over 68 games last season, demonstrating his value as a two-way player.

The Nets have been actively restructuring, highlighted by the recent trade of Mikal Bridges and ongoing trade rumors surrounding Cam Johnson. With Brooklyn seemingly moving towards a rebuild and offloading veteran players, Denver can step in to fill their defensive void by offering Zeke Nnaji and a 2026 pick swap.

Finney-Smith would provide the Nuggets with a reliable wing defender capable of guarding multiple positions, addressing one of their key needs. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses and contribute offensively with three-point shooting makes him an ideal fit for Denver's roster, especially in the highly competitive Western Conference.

For the Nets, this trade aligns with their strategy of building for the future. Adding Nnaji and the 2026 pick swap gives Brooklyn young talent and future assets, crucial for a team looking to develop a strong foundation. Nnaji, a promising young forward, offers potential for growth and versatility in their evolving lineup.

This trade scenario is mutually beneficial. Denver enhances its defense with a proven performer in Finney-Smith, while Brooklyn gains valuable assets for their rebuild. By making this move, the Nuggets position themselves as stronger contenders in the West, ready to face the league's top talents.

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