4.) Julian Strawther
This is another name that Nuggets fans don’t want to read. Why would the team trade one of their few promising young prospects under team control just as he’s (hopefully) starting to break out?
Well, that’s exactly why they would do it. The Nuggets don’t have many attractive assets and if they want to make a win-now move during the season, they are going to have to give up something of value. Strawther could be the perfect grease for a wheel so to speak.
For example, if the Nuggets are targeting a strong veteran player who fits Jokic’s timeline and could upgrade the team immediately, Denver wouldn’t have many means to acquire him. They could use the money from Nnaji, but that’s not enough to entice teams to part with anyone good.
But if the Nuggets dangle a young up-and-comer like Strawther, now that could actually move the needle. Fans won’t want to part with Strawther, but you’ve got to give something to get something and he may end up being the cost of doing business if Calvin Booth and company are serious about improving the team this year.
Along with Strawther, young players like Christian Brauna and Peyton Watson could be considered, but the point remains the same. If the Nuggets want to upgrade, they are almost certainly going to have to part with one of their promising young players if they hope to win any sort of bidding war.