The Denver Nuggets have retooled their roster this summer and are preparing to rebound from their second consecutive Western Conference semifinals loss.
The Nuggets made a huge splash this offseason, trading Michael Porter Jr. to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for 3-and-D forward Cameron Johnson. Denver also addressed its depth issues highlighted in its second-round playoff exit to the Oklahoma City Thunder, trading for veteran big man Jonas Valanciunas and signing Tim Hardaway Jr. and Bruce Brown in free agency.
However, the Nuggets may not be done making moves. With arguably the best player in the world, Nikola Jokic, leading the way, Denver has the potential to win another championship. Still, the roster may need more tweaking in a stacked Western Conference.
MORE: Nuggets' Aaron Gordon discusses connection with Nikola Jokic
Suns’ Royce O’Neale named trade candidate for Nuggets
The Phoenix Suns are looking to rebuild around Devin Booker after trading Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets and waiving Bradley Beal. With their future uncertain, the Suns could look to move some veteran players that no longer fit their long-term plans. Nathaniel Holloway of Athlon Sports believes forward Royce O’Neale could prove to be a solid fit in Denver.
“The veteran forward is a great 3-and-D wing who would give the Nuggets another solid scorer and defender off the bench to upgrade their second unit,” he wrote. “O’Neale could be a solid addition to Denver’s bench to help them try and make a run at a championship this season, though there should be multiple teams that show interest in him.”
O’Neale re-signed with the Suns on a four-year, $42 million pact in July 2024. He’s been a key rotational piece since being acquired from Brooklyn in February 2024.
However, the Suns aren’t expected to make significant noise after missing the postseason last year. Trading O’Neale for future assets may be a viable option.
In today’s NBA, having 3-and-D wing players is crucial for contending teams. Adding another option behind Johnson could significantly improve the Nuggets’ second unit.
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