Ranking Denver Nuggets Players Into 14 Different Categories Ahead Of 2024-25 Season

The Denver Nuggets still have championship aspirations despite losing another key player in free agency, this time letting Kentavious Caldwell-Pope walk. Regardless, they still have Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray who will lead the charge for them as they anticipate an exciting 2024-25 NBA campaign. We have named one Nuggets player in each of the 14 different categories that we saw when discussing the Golden State Warriors recently.

Best All-Around Player: Nikola Jokic

Nikola Jokic is undeniably the best all-around player on the Denver Nuggets and one of the most versatile players in the NBA. The reigning three-time MVP averaged 26.4 points, 12.4 rebounds, and 9.0 assists per game in the 2023-24 season, nearly completing another triple-double season. His ability to read defenses and make the right play, whether it's a pinpoint pass or a crafty post move, defines his value to the team.

Jokic’s impact goes beyond just the numbers; his presence on the court makes everyone around him better. As a three-time MVP, Jokic has revolutionized the center position, blending traditional big-man skills with elite playmaking. As the best all-around player on the Nuggets and the best player in the world, the Serbian will continue being in the MVP race in 2024-25.

Most Underrated: Aaron Gordon

Aaron Gordon is the Nuggets' most underrated player, often overshadowed by the star power of Jokic and Jamal Murray. Gordon's versatility on both ends of the floor is crucial for Denver. In the 2023-24 season, he averaged 13.9 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game while shooting 55.6% from the field. Gordon's ability to guard multiple positions, combined with his athleticism and strength, makes him a defensive anchor for the Nuggets.

Offensively, Gordon has improved his shooting and is a powerful finisher at the rim, making him a valuable asset in transition and in half-court sets. His ability to play off Jokic and Murray by cutting to the basket or spacing the floor shows his high basketball IQ and adaptability. Despite his consistent performances, Gordon often flies under the radar when discussing Denver's success, making him the team's most underrated player.

Most Overrated: Michael Porter Jr.

Michael Porter Jr. is a talented player, but he is often considered the most overrated player on the Nuggets due to his inconsistent performances, defensive limitations, and massive contract that will pay him $35,859,950 next season. While Porter Jr. has shown the ability to be a prolific scorer—averaging 16.7 points per game while shooting 39.7% from three in the 2023-24 season—his shot selection and lack of defensive intensity have raised concerns.

Porter Jr.'s defensive struggles make him a target for opposing offenses, and his occasional lapses in focus can hurt the Nuggets' defensive schemes. To live up to his potential and contract, Porter Jr. needs to improve his decision-making, defensive effort, and consistency. Until then, he will continue to be seen as the most overrated member of Denver's starting lineup.

Best Shooter: Michael Porter Jr.

Despite being considered overrated, Michael Porter Jr. is still the best shooter on the Nuggets. His 6'10" frame allows him to shoot over most defenders, and his quick release makes him a constant threat from beyond the arc. Porter Jr. shot 39.7% from three-point range in the 2023-24 season, showcasing his ability to score from deep with efficiency. His ability to stretch the floor is critical for Denver, providing space for Jokic and Murray to operate.

Porter Jr.'s shooting form and confidence allow him to knock down difficult shots, both in catch-and-shoot situations and off the dribble. When he's hot, Porter Jr. can be nearly unguardable, and his shooting opens up the Nuggets' offense by forcing defenses to extend beyond the three-point line.

Best Post Scorer: Nikola Jokic

As the best all-around player on the Nuggets, Nikola Jokic is also their best post scorer. His soft touch, incredible footwork, and ability to use his body to create space make him almost impossible to guard in the post. Jokic’s array of moves, from up-and-under to fadeaway jumpers, combined with his size and strength, allow him to dominate inside. In the 2023-24 season, Jokic averaged 26.4 points per game, much of which came from his work in the paint.

Jokic’s scoring efficiency is remarkable, as he often draws double-teams and still manages to score or find open teammates. His ability to read defenses and make the right move makes him a constant threat down low. Whether he is backing down a smaller defender or using finesse to score around bigger opponents, Jokic's post-scoring ability remains unmatched in the NBA.

Best Handles: Jamal Murray

Jamal Murray is the Nuggets' player with the best handles, known for his tight dribbling skills and ability to create separation from defenders. His ball-handling ability allows him to navigate through traffic, pull up for jumpers, or drive to the basket effectively. Murray's handles are a key part of his offensive arsenal, enabling him to break down defenders and create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.

Murray’s handles were on full display during Denver’s playoff runs, where he consistently created his own shot in crunch-time situations. His crossovers, hesitations, and spin moves keep defenders guessing, making him one of the most difficult guards to defend one-on-one. His dribbling skills, combined with his scoring and passing ability, make him an elite offensive weapon for the Nuggets.

Best Passer: Nikola Jokic

Nikola Jokic is not just the best passer on the Nuggets; he is arguably the best passer in the NBA. His court vision and ability to deliver pinpoint passes from any position on the floor are unparalleled among big men. Jokic led the Nuggets with 9.0 assists per game in the 2023-24 season, often threading the needle to find open shooters and cutters.

Jokic’s passing ability is a critical component of Denver's offense, turning the team into one of the most fluid and dynamic units in the league. His knack for making the right play at the right time, whether it’s a no-look pass or a full-court outlet, creates countless scoring opportunities for his teammates.

Best Perimeter Defender: Aaron Gordon

Aaron Gordon is the Nuggets' best perimeter defender now that Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is gone, often tasked with guarding the opposing team's best wing or guard. His size, lateral quickness, and strength allow him to stay in front of quicker players while also being able to challenge shots effectively. Gordon's defensive presence on the perimeter is crucial for a Nuggets team that often relies on outscoring opponents rather than locking them down.

Gordon's defensive versatility allows him to guard multiple positions, which is invaluable in today’s NBA. In addition to his one-on-one defense, Gordon is also a solid help defender, capable of disrupting passing lanes and coming up with key stops in crucial moments.

Best Post Defender: Aaron Gordon

Aaron Gordon also takes the title of the Nuggets' best post defender. His combination of strength, athleticism, and defensive IQ makes him a formidable force in the paint. Gordon’s ability to contest shots without fouling and his quick hands allow him to be effective against bigger forwards and centers. His tenacity and physicality make it difficult for opponents to score easily in the post.

Gordon's ability to guard both perimeter and post players gives the Nuggets flexibility in their defensive matchups. His willingness to take on challenging defensive assignments, whether it’s guarding a dynamic wing player or banging in the post with a big man, demonstrates his value to the Nuggets on the defensive end.

Most Athletic: Aaron Gordon

Aaron Gordon, at 6’8” and 235 lbs, is without question the most athletic player on the Nuggets. His explosive leaping ability, strength, and speed make him a highlight reel waiting to happen. Gordon’s athleticism allows him to finish above the rim, block shots, and defend multiple positions effectively. His versatility is a direct result of his physical gifts, which enable him to perform at a high level on both ends of the floor.

Gordon's athleticism is also a crucial component of Denver's transition game. He can run the floor with the best of them, providing easy scoring opportunities and putting pressure on opposing defenses. Whether it’s catching alley-oops, chasing down blocks, or grabbing rebounds, Gordon's athleticism is always on full display and is a key element of Denver's game plan.

Worst Starter: Christian Braun

While Christian Braun is a promising young player at 23 years old, he is considered the worst starter on the Nuggets mainly due to his inexperience and evolving role. As a second-year player last year, Braun showed flashes of his defensive potential and three-point shooting ability (7.3 PPG on 38.4% from deep), but he has yet to develop the consistency needed to be a reliable starter on a championship-contending team. He could prove that he is one now that he is inserted into the starting lineup in Caldwell-Pope’s absence.

Braun’s potential is undeniable, but he needs more time and experience to refine his skills and make a more significant impact on the game. He is still learning how to fit into Denver’s system and make the most of his minutes. With more seasoning, Braun could become a more valuable contributor, but for now, he remains the weakest link in Denver's starting five.

Best Role Player: Russell Westbrook

Russell Westbrook, despite his age and perceived decline, has emerged as the best role player for the Denver Nuggets. Since becoming a bench player, Westbrook has adapted his game to fit his team’s needs, bringing energy and playmaking off the bench. In the 2023-24 season, he averaged 11.1 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game, providing a spark whenever he stepped on the court.

Westbrook's ability to push the pace and create scoring opportunities for both himself and his teammates has been invaluable. He has embraced his role as a leader for the second unit, providing veteran experience and a relentless motor and the Nuggets will need that since they have lost some key pieces from their championship puzzle over the past two seasons.

Most Clutch Player: Jamal Murray

Jamal Murray has solidified himself as the most clutch player on the Nuggets, a reputation he earned through his performances in high-pressure situations. Murray’s ability to hit big shots, especially in the playoffs, has been well-documented. His scoring averages and efficiency tend to increase in clutch moments, proving his value as a go-to player when the game is on the line.

Murray’s poise under pressure and ability to create his shot against elite defenders make him a critical asset in crunch time. Whether it’s a step-back jumper, a three-pointer, or a drive to the basket, Murray consistently delivers in the clutch.

Best Leader: Nikola Jokic

Nikola Jokic is not only Denver’s best player but also its best leader. His calm demeanor, selflessness, and willingness to make the right play exemplify his leadership qualities. Jokic leads by example, showing his teammates the value of teamwork and hard work.

Jokic’s leadership was the driving force behind Denver’s 2023 NBA Championship run and continues to be a driving factor for their success. He sets the tone for the team with his work ethic, unselfishness, and competitive spirit. As the face of the franchise, Jokic embodies the culture of the Nuggets, and alongside his co-star Jamal Murray, will likely have another MVP-caliber campaign in 2024-25.

Related: 2024-25 Denver Nuggets Roster By Tiers

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