Prediction: Who Will Earn the Last Two Nuggets’ Roster Spots?
By Evan Hosmer
JaKarr Sampson– SF
JaKarr Sampson was signed by the Denver Nuggets last season in February after being cut earlier in the season by the Philadelphia 76ers. In his brief stint with the Nuggets, Sampson averaged 5 points on 47% shooting while only shooting 27% from the three point line. Sampson scored the majority of his points by driving the lane and scoring inside, struggling to make jump shots consistently.
Sampson’s true value to the Nuggets comes on the defensive side of the floor. Sampson is a guy who can lock down on defense which is a valuable asset for any NBA team. Sampson also made an appearance on the Nuggets summer league team this year where his same issues were prevalent. Sampson struggled to make shots that were not at the rim, shooting a mediocre 25% from three in summer league play.
Sampson would be heading into the season behind Danilo Gallinari and Wilson Chandler at the small forward position. Wilson Chandler is a player at the same position who has the same qualities as Sampson on defense, but is also able to knock down shots from anywhere on the floor. With the Nuggets emphasis on shooting this offseason, Sampson could find himself an odd man out on the final roster.
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