Denver Nuggets: Constructing the dream offseason
By Sean Carroll
Denver Nuggets dream offseason: What to do with Will Barton?
So much of the Denver Nuggets’ offseason starts with Will Barton and his impending Player Option decision.
Two weeks ago, Barton hired a new agency to represent himself which likely signals there is some contract work to be done. The deadline for his Player Option worth $14.6 million is 1 Aug. and even if he declines it, it doesn’t necessarily mean he’s leaving Colorado.
Will the Thrill is the longest-tenured Nugget on the roster and has been on this team throughout the entire rebuild. His role has changed over the years as he’s moved in and out of the starting lineup many times.
Entering his age-31 season, Barton is in the twilight of his prime and his next contract might be his last above the minimum. He posted averages of 12.7 points and four rebounds this past season but health issues again sidelined him in the playoffs until the final few games against Phoenix.
He could full-well pick up his option and then test free agency the following offseason, but he could also opt out and resign with Denver for more money across more years.
Head coach Michael Malone said in his postseason press conference that he wants Will back next season:
"“He means a ton to this team and everything we’ve been able to accomplish these last six years. … Me, personally, I hope he’s back here for a long time.”"
With Jamal’s injury, there are more touches on the wing going around and while Denver will have to address his absence this offseason regardless, asking more of Barton is something he can do.
The two pathways I see here are either Will opts out and resigns for a longer deal or he leaves Denver altogether.
If he stays, he’ll take more shots next season but be relegated to the bench when the team is at full strength. If he goes, it opens up a lot of cap space under the tax line for Denver to go shopping in free agency. Speaking of: