The Denver Nuggets are proving that they are in the best position to defend their championship this season. Led by reigning Finals MVP Nikola Jokic and supported by a strong core, the Denver team is ready to win again. Of course, the team's lineup has already shown its talented side. However, it is clear that some strategic moves can push this team to even greater heights. With the approach of the 2025 NBA trade deadline, the Nuggets have the opportunity to address their bench depth issues and perfect their rotation. By adding a sharpshooting wing and an experienced center, Denver can significantly increase their chances of reclaiming the title. Here are two trades the Nuggets should consider before the deadline.
So far, the 2024-25 season has been successful for the Denver Nuggets. They currently have a record of 25 wins and 16 losses. Nikola Jokic continues to assert himself as one of the most dominant players in the league. That said, even for the most experienced observers, it remains a mystery how long his peak will last.
Jokic is undoubtedly the best player in Nuggets history. That being said, he will turn 30 on February 19, just weeks after the NBA trade deadline. However, there are some challenges for Denver's management. Note that, aside from Jokic, Michael Porter is the only player on the list with an annual salary over 10millionwhoiseligibletobetraded.ZekeNnajiandDarioSaricaretheonlyothertwoplayerswithsalariesover4 million who can be traded. Yes, Porter has increased his trade value in recent weeks. However, for much of the season, Saric and Nnaji have not fully matched their respective salaries on the court.
The Nuggets' only tradable first-round draft pick at present is the 2031 draft pick. This is due to the Stepien rule, which restricts teams from trading first-round picks in consecutive seasons. The value of this pick largely depends on how long Jokic's career lasts and how successful the Nuggets can be in the coming years.
Here, we will discuss the three best trades the Denver Nuggets must make before the 2025 NBA trade deadline.
Trading Bogdan Bogdanovic
One area where the Nuggets can improve is their bench scoring. Acquiring a skilled wing player like Bogdan Bogdanovic would greatly meet this need. The versatile forward of the Atlanta Hawks is widely regarded as one of the most reliable shooters in the league. He can expand the floor space while also serving as a stable secondary ball-handler. Remember, the Nuggets heavily rely on their starting five in offense. That being said, Bogdanovic's addition would bring an experienced scorer to the Nuggets, who could serve as the sixth man and immediately initiate offense off the bench.
Bogdanovic's long-range shooting and shot-creating abilities complement Denver's offense. They rely on ball movement and spatial advantages. His efficiency, especially in three-pointers, will open up the defense, creating more opportunities for Jokic. Bogdanovic can come off the bench and contribute 15-20 points per game, which will be a significant upgrade for the Nuggets' bench, as it sometimes struggles to provide scoring depth when needed.
Furthermore, Bogdanovic brings rich playoff experience. Over the years, he has played for multiple competitive teams. Moreover, few players outside of the Nuggets have played alongside Nikola Jokic for as long as Bogdanovic. Recall that they competed alongside Jokic in the Olympics. Bogdanovic is a versatile wing player who can serve as both a starting shooting guard and a key contributor off the Denver bench.
Trading Jonas Valanciunas
Yes, improving bench scoring is crucial. However, Denver must also address frontcourt depth issues, particularly at the center position. Of course, Jokic is undoubtedly one of the best players in the league. That being said, having a reliable backup center to provide quality playing time when Jokic rests may determine whether the team exits in the first round or goes further in the playoffs. This is where Jonas Valanciunas comes into play. The big man from the Washington Wizards would be the ideal candidate to meet this need.
Valanciunas is known for his physicality in the paint. He can dominate the boards and score effectively in the post. As a proven double-double machine, he will form a more traditional physical contrast to Jokic's skill-focused style. The Lithuanian center's ability to gain extra possessions in intense playoff matchups will be invaluable. His size and strength will also give the Nuggets an advantage in matchups against larger centers.
Valanciunas will solve Denver's backup center dilemma. Remember, the 32-year-old veteran is unlikely to be a long-term member of the rebuilding Wizards. This is especially true after being relegated to a backup role behind young player Alexander Sar. Trading Valanciunas would make Washington younger and give them more flexibility to focus on rebuilding efforts. For the Nuggets, this could be an excellent opportunity to acquire a reliable veteran center. They might send future draft picks or players more aligned with the Wizards' long-term vision.
Looking Ahead
The Denver Nuggets have the power to defend their championship title, but standing still is not an option. By acquiring experienced scorers like Bogdan Bogdanovic and tough, reliable centers like Jonas Valanciunas, the Nuggets can not only enhance their roster depth but also prepare for another playoff run. Adding these two players will make the Nuggets a more balanced team, capable of maintaining high-level play even in the face of injuries or fatigue. As the trade deadline approaches, these two moves should be the top priority for Denver's strategy, solidifying their status as the toughest team in the Western Conference.