As a member of the Golden State Warriors during the 2023-24 season, Dario Saric averaged 8.0 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.3 assists in 64 games. His contributions off the bench provided valuable depth for the Warriors, particularly with his ability to stretch the floor as a shooting big man.
The Denver Nuggets could greatly benefit from adding Dario Saric to their roster. Known for his versatility, Saric can play both forward positions and serve as a stretch four, which is crucial for the Nuggets’ offensive spacing. His three-point shooting ability forces defenses to stay honest, preventing them from collapsing on Nikola Jokic in the paint. This spacing is vital for Denver’s offensive flow, allowing Jokic and Jamal Murray more room to operate and create plays.
Saric also passed the ball well, which helps in the Denver system—he is someone who could move the ball and make plays that usually have to fit the many positions on the team relying on quick passes and quick offense. Moreover, his experience in the system at many positions and overall experience in different systems makes him very flexible, which is probably even more important when called for a Denver team with a real chance for a championship.
With Aaron Gordon hunkering down on defense and into some paint scoring, Saric’s perimeter game provides another level of attack for Denver. He steps in as the steady scorer for Denver between the paint and beyond, thus making sure the Nuggets always have consistent bench production. In most cases, his basketball IQ and experience are calming but also impactful in crucial moments.
Another season in the career of Victor Oladipo, which was ruined by a serious knee injury—something that streaked most of his past few years. In fact, during the 2023 playoffs, when suiting up for the Miami Heat against the Milwaukee Bucks, Oladipo suffered a torn left patellar tendon in the first round. That injury knocked him out for the rest of the season, seriously putting into question his status at the start of next season after he couldn’t make an appearance in 2023-24.
Nevertheless, Oladipo’s potential fit into Denver would be extremely interesting. He’s more known for his defensive tenacity and being able to get his own shot, and that might add some much-needed spark into the Nuggets’ backcourt. That experience as a former All-Star and where rotational minutes were carefully used to prevent other injuries is invaluable.
Oladipo is a player who does many things, which would fit perfectly with what the Denver Nuggets need. His defensive capability turns into something vital in that he’s able to take care of some positions, giving Denver an elite wingman alongside Jamal Murray. That has put the Nuggets in possession of two really strong options crucial for going well deep into the playoffs.
On offense, he is a creator in his own right and can be viewed as something of a secondary ball-handler after Murray and Nikola Jokic. His ability to drive into the paint and shoot from there creates another dimension for the Denver office. Though his shooting percentages have varied due to injury, Oladipo has proved himself to be a solid scorer when healthy.
Oladipo could be a seasoned guard joining that lineup, seasoned with a veteran’s minimum deal to bring in scoring, playmaking, and defense off the bench for the Nuggets. Furthermore, his playing experience could give very valuable leadership to a Nuggets team that has championship aspirations.
5. Kris Dunn
Kris Dunn had a season of consistent contributions with the Utah Jazz, averaging 5.4 points, 3.8 assists, and 2.9 rebounds over 66 games. While his scoring numbers might not jump off the page, Dunn’s value lies in his defensive capabilities and his ability to run the offense when needed.
Throughout the season, Dunn proved to be a reliable presence off the bench for Utah. His defensive skills were on full display as he frequently guarded the opposing team’s best perimeter players. His commitment to defense and his knack for disrupting the opposition were key elements that bolstered the Jazz’s overall defensive strategy.
Kris Dunn would be a valuable addition to the Denver Nuggets, particularly due to his defensive prowess and versatility. Denver, with Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray leading the charge, could greatly benefit from Dunn’s ability to guard multiple positions and handle the ball. His defense-first mentality would complement the offensive firepower of Jokic and Murray, adding a much-needed balance to the team.
Dunn’s versatility allows him to play both guard positions, providing depth and flexibility to Denver’s rotations. He could step in to relieve Murray, ensuring there’s no significant drop-off in ball-handling and playmaking. His defensive tenacity would also be crucial in matchups against teams with strong guard play, helping Denver to better contain opposing threats.
6. Wesley Matthews
A seasoned NBA veteran, Wesley Matthews played for the Atlanta Hawks in the 2023-24 campaign. Throughout the season, he averaged 3.1 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 0.6 assists per game, contributing mainly as a mentor and a three-point specialist off the bench. Despite limited minutes, his defensive skills and shooting ability (34.8% from three-point range) were key assets for the Hawks.
Adding Matthews to the Denver Nuggets could significantly strengthen their bench by infusing veteran experience and reliable shooting. With stars like Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray, the Nuggets benefit from having dependable shooters to space the floor. Matthews’s capability to hit open threes would enhance Jokic’s playmaking and create more opportunities for Murray.
Matthews’s defensive skills and experience can boost Denver’s depth. His ability to guard multiple positions and his basketball intelligence are particularly valuable in high-stakes situations, such as the playoffs. This versatility could help alleviate the defensive pressure on Denver’s younger perimeter players.
Furthermore, Matthews brings leadership and professionalism that can positively impact Denver’s locker room. His extensive playoff experience and composure in pressure situations are qualities that can guide the Nuggets’ younger players through the challenges of a deep playoff run. Matthews’s shooting, defense, and veteran leadership make him an ideal candidate to enhance Denver’s perimeter defense as a low-cost signing.
7. Joe Harris
Joe Harris might not have had his best season with the Detroit Pistons, but his sharp shooting skills are undeniable. Averaging 2.4 points, 0.8 rebounds, and 0.6 assists per game, his stats don’t fully capture his potential impact. Known for his exceptional three-point shooting, Harris can still stretch defenses and create space for stars like Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray.
Harris’s ability to knock down threes would be a perfect fit in Denver’s system, especially with Jokic’s elite playmaking. Picture this: Jokic drawing double teams in the post and kicking it out to a wide-open Harris, who drains the three. That’s the kind of dynamic Harris can bring to the Nuggets. His shooting would force defenses to stay honest, giving Denver’s primary scorers more room to operate.
Beyond his shooting, Harris brings a wealth of experience and a calm presence to the team. His time in the league has taught him the nuances of the game, making him a valuable mentor for Denver’s younger players. Imagine the Nuggets in a tight playoff game – Harris’s ability to hit clutch shots could be a game-changer.
In short, Joe Harris offers a blend of shooting prowess and veteran savvy that the Nuggets could use. His ability to space the floor and provide leadership makes him an appealing option for Denver, especially on a minimum contract.
8. Reggie Bullock
Reggie Bullock spent the 2023-2024 season with the Houston Rockets, where he averaged 2.2 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 0.3 assists in 44 games. His playing time was limited, averaging 9.5 minutes per game, but his experience and defensive skills were still valuable to the team.
Despite the modest stats, Bullock is known for his three-point shooting and perimeter defense, both of which are assets that could benefit the Denver Nuggets. Denver, with offensive stars like Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray, could use Bullock’s defensive abilities to guard against strong wing players from opposing teams.
Bullock’s history of being a reliable three-point shooter would also be beneficial for the Nuggets. His ability to stretch the floor would create more space for Jokic’s playmaking and Murray’s drives to the basket. Even though his shooting numbers were not highlighted this season, his career suggests that he can be a consistent threat from beyond the arc.
In addition to his on-court contributions, Bullock brings valuable veteran experience and a professional attitude to the team. His journey through various teams has equipped him with a wealth of knowledge that can be shared with younger players on the Nuggets. This mentorship, combined with his defensive skills and shooting ability, makes Bullock a solid addition to Denver as they aim for another deep playoff run.
9. Patty Mills
Patty Mills had a busy season, starting with the Atlanta Hawks before moving to the Miami Heat. Across both teams, Mills averaged 4.0 points, 1.1 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game. While his scoring output was modest, Mills brought significant veteran leadership and a reliable shooting touch, particularly from beyond the arc.
During his time with the Miami Heat, Mills played an important role off the bench. He provided a steady hand in limited minutes, known for his quick release and ability to knock down three-pointers, which is a valuable skill set for any team looking to bolster its perimeter shooting.
Mills could be a great fit for the Denver Nuggets, who are always in need of reliable shooters. Additionally, Mills’s experience in high-pressure playoff situations could provide Denver with a calming presence during crucial moments of the game.
Bringing in Mills on a minimum contract would be a smart move for Denver. Not only would they gain a seasoned shooter who can hit clutch shots, but they would also add a veteran leader who understands what it takes to compete at the highest levels. Mills’s championship experience with the San Antonio Spurs and his overall professionalism make him an excellent candidate to strengthen the Nuggets’ bench.
10. Ish Smith
Ish Smith played the 2023-24 season with the Charlotte Hornets, where he averaged 3.2 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 3.3 assists over 43 games. Known for his speed and playmaking abilities, Smith primarily came off the bench, providing valuable minutes and facilitating the offense.
Despite limited playing time, Smith’s impact was felt through his quickness and ability to push the pace. His experience as a veteran guard allowed him to manage the game’s tempo effectively and create scoring opportunities for his teammates. Smith’s versatility as a point guard makes him a reliable backup, capable of stepping up when needed.
Adding Ish Smith to the Denver Nuggets could be a smart move to strengthen their guard rotation. His playmaking skills would complement the team’s offensive flow, ensuring that there is no drop-off in ball distribution when the starters are resting. Smith’s ability to drive and dish would open up opportunities for Denver’s shooters and big men, enhancing their overall offensive efficiency.
Smith also brings a wealth of experience and leadership, having played for multiple teams throughout his career. His understanding of different offensive and defensive schemes can be a valuable asset in high-pressure situations, particularly in the playoffs. Signing Smith on a minimum contract would be a low-risk move that could provide significant benefits in terms of depth and experience for Denver.
