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Denver must make a splash in free agency now

By Mathew Huff

Feb 8, 2017; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Paul Millsap (4) makes a move against Denver Nuggets forward Wilson Chandler (21) and guard Jamal Murray (27) in the second quarter of their game at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 8, 2017; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Paul Millsap (4) makes a move against Denver Nuggets forward Wilson Chandler (21) and guard Jamal Murray (27) in the second quarter of their game at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 13, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Andre Iguodala (9) guards Denver Nuggets forward Danilo Gallinari (8) in the third quarter at the Pepsi Center. The Nuggets defeated the Warriors 112-110. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 13, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Andre Iguodala (9) guards Denver Nuggets forward Danilo Gallinari (8) in the third quarter at the Pepsi Center. The Nuggets defeated the Warriors 112-110. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /

The Denver Nuggets need to make some noise in free agency in order to be competent next year.

The Denver Nuggets did not get exactly what they wanted or needed in the draft. They reportedly struck out on a blockbuster trade after this anonymous team backed out on the deal last minute.

Denver also traded for Trey Lyles and ended up with Tyler Lyndon, neither of whom are defensive juggernauts to say the very least. Next, they did manage to snag Monte Morris who has the potential to be very reliable point guard, but it still does not solve their glaring problems.

Denver Nuggets
Denver Nuggets /

Denver Nuggets

Now, Denver needs to set their sights on free agency. The Nuggets still have a ton of cap space to play with and let’s be honest, they should honestly consider letting Gallo walk.

Gallinari is going to want too much money and if the Nuggets grant him a max deal, it will handicap their ability to go after star free agents. Plus, when one looks at how much Portland and Minnesota improved, the Nuggets have an even harder uphill climb now.

The Timberwolves now have a big three with the addition of Jimmy Butler and the Nuggets need to get a star of their own just so they can compete in their division. Suddenly, going after Paul Millsap, a veteran who is a star and can protect the rim, looks like more of a desperate need rather than a nice commodity.

Now, if Denver wants to have a shot at the post season next year, they are going to need to make a splash in free agency this summer.

Whether that free agent is Millsap, Ibaka or even Hayward, Denver must make it happen.