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2024-25 Denver Nuggets Roster By Tiers

By Eddie Bitar,

6 hours ago

The 2024-25 Denver Nuggets will have to find a way to regroup despite losing another piece. Last year’s Nuggets missed the presence of Bruce Brown and Jeff Green and will have to find a way to cope without starting shooting guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope who signed a three-year, $66 million deal with the Orlando Magic this summer. The Nuggets hope that veteran point guard Russell Westbrook can fill in the gaps, and we have divided their current roster into six important tiers as we have done with the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks.

Tier 1: Superstars

Nikola Jokic

Nikola Jokic is the heart of the Denver Nuggets and one of the most dominant players in the NBA. Fresh off a third MVP award one season after leading the Nuggets to their first championship in franchise history, Jokic continues to showcase his unparalleled skill set. The three-time MVP averaged 26.4 points, 12.4 rebounds, and 9.0 assists per game last season, displaying his elite passing, scoring, and rebounding abilities. Jokic’s basketball IQ and vision make him nearly impossible to defend, and his presence on the court elevates everyone around him. As the cornerstone of the Nuggets, Jokic’s performance will be key to any hopes of another championship run.

Tier 2: All-Stars

Jamal Murray

Jamal Murray has solidified himself as one of the premier guards in the league, especially after his exceptional performances in the playoffs year after year (although he struggled last season by averaging only 20.6 PPG on 31.5% 3-PT FG). However, Murray’s clutch shot-making and ability to take over games were crucial in the Nuggets’ championship run, where he averaged 26.1 points and 7.1 assists per game in the postseason, so hopefully he can return to that level because the Nuggets need him. With an elevated role in the upcoming season, Murray is expected to maintain his high level of play and further establish himself as one of the league’s top guards.

Tier 3: Fringe All-Stars

Aaron Gordon

Aaron Gordon has become the perfect complementary piece for the Nuggets, providing elite defense, athleticism, and versatility. Last season, Gordon averaged 13.9 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, showcasing his ability to impact the game in multiple ways. His defensive prowess, particularly in guarding the opposition’s best players, was vital in the Nuggets’ playoff success. Offensively, Gordon’s ability to finish around the rim and his improved three-point shooting make him a valuable asset. While not an All-Star, Gordon’s contributions are integral to Denver’s success.

Tier 4: Key Role Players

Michael Porter Jr, Russell Westbrook, Christian Braun

Despite battling injuries, Michael Porter Jr. remains a high-impact player who averaged 16.7 points and 7.0 rebounds per game last season, shooting over 39.7% from three-point range. His size and shooting touch make him a difficult matchup for opposing defenses. Porter’s health and consistency will be key factors in determining the Nuggets’ ceiling this season as they rely on his scoring to supplement Jokic and Murray.

Russell Westbrook’s arrival in Denver brings a veteran presence and explosive athleticism to the team. Although his role has changed over the years, Westbrook’s ability to push the pace, facilitate, and contribute as a playmaker remains valuable. Last season, Westbrook averaged 11.1 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game, showing he still has plenty to offer. In Denver, he’s expected to provide leadership and energy off the bench, filling in the gaps left by Caldwell-Pope and adding depth to the backcourt.

Christian Braun is a young, emerging talent who made significant strides last season. Known for his tenacity on defense and hustle plays, Braun has earned a larger role within the Nuggets’ rotation. He averaged 7.3 points and 3.7 rebounds per game in his rookie season, but his impact goes beyond the stat sheet with his ability to guard multiple positions and make winning plays. With more responsibility this season, Braun’s development will be key as he grows into a reliable role player.

Tier 5: Supplementary Pieces

Peyton Watson, Zeke Nnaji, Dario Saric

The 6’8” and 200 lb swingman Peyton Watson is a young forward with intriguing potential, known for his length and defensive ability. While he’s still developing his offensive game, Watson’s energy and athleticism could earn him minutes off the bench in the upcoming season as he posted 6.7 points and 3.2 rebounds per game in 2023-24.

Zeke Nnaji is a versatile big man who provides valuable depth in the frontcourt. Nnaji’s ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and his solid defensive presence make him an important rotational piece (3.2 PPG, 2.2 RPG in 9.9 MPG). As the Nuggets navigate the loss of key veterans, Nnaji’s role is expected to expand, particularly as a backup center and power forward.

Dario Saric brings experience and versatility to the Nuggets as a seasoned forward. Known for his basketball IQ and ability to play both forward positions, Saric averaged 8.0 points and 4.4 rebounds per game last season. His skill set includes floor spacing, passing, and solid interior play, which adds another dimension to the Nuggets’ second unit.

Tier 6: Bench

DaRon Holmes, Vlatko Cancar, Julian Strawther, Jalen Pickett, Hunter Tyson, Gabe McGlotnan

DaRon Holmes is a rookie big man with a strong defensive presence and rebounding ability. As he adjusts to the NBA level, Holmes will look to make his mark with his shot-blocking and hustle, likely serving as a backup center, if he can even return from his torn Achilles tendon in time.

Vlatko Cancar is a reliable role player who can provide minutes at both forward positions. Known for his basketball IQ and ability to space the floor, Cancar offers depth and experience to the Nuggets’ bench as he hopes to return to the court following the 2023-24 season that he missed entirely due to left knee surgery.

Julian Strawther is a second-year guard with a smooth shooting stroke and scoring ability. While he’ll need time to develop, the 22-year-old Strawther’s potential as a floor spacer could make him a valuable asset in the future.

Jalen Pickett is another second-year youngster who will likely spend much of his time learning the system and adjusting to the pace of the NBA, but his potential could make him a solid contributor down the line after only averaging 4.5 minutes per game last year.

Hunter Tyson is a young forward with a well-rounded game, including the ability to shoot from distance. Tyson’s versatility and work ethic could see him earn minutes as a 3-and-D option off the bench as he only appeared in 18 appearances last year.

Gabe McGlothan is a 6’7” rookie who brings energy and rebounding to the team. As he adjusts to the NBA, McGlothan will focus on developing his game and finding ways to contribute in limited minutes although we won’t expect to see him appear for much of the season.