Denver Nuggets picked as ‘ideal’ landing spot for ‘explosive’ guard

The biggest question mark surrounding the Denver Nuggets heading into the new season has been their lack of depth at wing spot. Over the summer, the Nuggets lost both Bruce Brown and Jeff Green in free agency, as well as Vlatko Cancar to a torn ACL. They’ll largely be relying on the likes of Christian Braun and Peyton Watson to eat up some extra minutes off of the bench this season.

In the case that those two aren’t able to rise to the occasion, Denver may have to look elsewhere to patch up this hole. Bleacher Report’s Adam Fromal recently suggested that they take a flier on Will Barton, who is still a free agent.

“The 32-year-old is still an explosive transition threat and savvy cutter, albeit inconsistent, forcing fans to endure a roller-coaster ride when he’s on the floor,” Fromal pitched.

Does it make sense for the Denver Nuggets to bring back Will Barton?

Barton spent eight seasons in the Mile-High City, from 2015-2022. During that span, he averaged 14.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game while shooting 43.8% from the field and 35.5% from beyond the arc.

However, after leaving the Nuggets in the summer of 2022, the 32-year-old hasn’t been as sharp. Both his scoring output and efficiency have taken a serious dip.

With all of that being said, it still wouldn’t be the most outrageous thing for Denver to take a flier on him. Barton has plenty of experience playing within the Nuggets’ offense alongside Nikola Jokic. The strengths that Fromal highlighted, like cutting and getting out in transition could help him thrive if he were to suit up in navy and gold once again.

The problem is that Denver already has a full roster. All 15 spots have been filled. So, in order to bring back Barton they’d have to waive someone.

Realistically, if there was any interest in bringing back the longtime Nugget, Denver probably would’ve already invited him to training camp.