Nuggets notebook: Denver announces preseason schedule, DeAndre Jordan's return

The last two NBA champions will kick off their preseasons on the other side of the globe.

On Oct. 4, the Nuggets and Celtics will play the first of two exhibitions in Abu Dhabi. The Nuggets then return home for a couple of more games against teams with championship aspirations. Denver hosts Phoenix and Oklahoma City on Oct. 13 and 15, respectively.

The Nuggets' preseason slate ends in Minnesota against the team that ended the Nuggets' repeat bid on Oct. 18.

The regular season begins on Oct. 22, though the full schedule has not been released.

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Jordan re-signs with Nuggets

DeAndre Jordan has found a home in Denver.

The Nuggets on Wednesday announced the re-signing of Jordan, a 16-year NBA veteran who will play his third season at Ball Arena. He played a bit role in 36 games last season, though the team portrays Jordan as a strong and well-respected locker-room presence.

Jordan and Nikola Jokic have grown a valuable friendship over two seasons together. Jokic, a three-time league MVP, refers to Jordan as the "Black Serbian," Jordan said on a recent podcast with Clippers star Paul George, for example.

Jordan was part of the 2023 roster that won the franchise's first NBA title. Last season he averaged 3.9 points and 4.4 rebounds in 11 minutes per game.

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2024-25 Nuggets preseason schedule

Oct. 4: Nuggets vs. Celtics, Abu Dhabi

Oct. 6: Nuggets vs. Celtics, Abu Dhabi

Oct. 13: Nuggets vs. Suns, Ball Arena

Oct. 15: Nuggets vs. Thunder, Ball Arena

Oct. 18: Nuggets at Timberwolves, Target Center