5 Trades to fill Denver Nuggets’ biggest hole

Denver Nuggets, Michael Malone. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Denver Nuggets, Michael Malone. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /
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Denver Nuggets, Royce O’Neale. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Nuggets find wing upgrade

Denver would love to add someone to play Bruce Brown’s role from last season. They need a wing that can guard multiple positions, handle the ball, and sink open shots. Brown has a unique skill set, but a 3-and-D wing with a bit of playmaking would be massive.

The Nets shopped Royce O’Neale in the offseason, but no team was willing to meet their asking price of a first-round draft pick. Brooklyn has not been healthy to begin the year, but they still have a logjam on the wing and a desire to deal O’Neale’s expiring contract. Could this trade get it done?

The Nets were searching for a backup point guard this offseason before signing Dennis Smith Jr. in free agency. Reggie Jackson offers more offensive punch plus they get a first-round pick swap in 2028 and two second-rounders. It may be the best offer for the 30-year-old wing on an expiring contract.

The Denver Nuggets would love to make this move. O’Neale is a career 38.3 percent 3-point shooter, who has averaged over 30 minutes per game over 44 playoff contests. He will make shots and create a few plays when the games matter most, but convincing the Nets to accept a first-round pick swap and a couple of second-rounders will be easier said than done.