5 reasonable expectations for the 2024 Denver Nuggets offseason
By Ben Handler
The Nuggets are heading into a critical offseason, one that could shape the franchise for years to come. The team has some tough decisions to make; surely they want to get back in the mix to win a championship next season after this season’s disappointing ending, but they don’t want to overreact either.
Most of a championship roster is still intact, including the entire starting lineup. Denver should do what they can to keep the team together, make a few tweaks here and there, and hope that young players develop into consistent contributors.
Sure, there is a chance the team gets crazy and goes for a splash move like trading Michael Porter Jr., but that’s likely a route the team would rather avoid, perhaps saved for a last-resort type of move. It’s fair to expect the front office to try and improve the team, but they don’t want to make a rash move that could hurt them down the road.
A rational balance between trying to win now and trying to build sustainable success should be expected from the Nuggets this offseason. There are plenty of smart moves the team can make without sacrificing the present or the future. Here’s a look at 5 reasonable expectations for the Nuggets this offseason.
1.) Kentavious Caldwell-Pope will turn down his player-option and become a free agent
Unfortunately, this has become thought of as a no-brainer in NBA circles. Caldwell-Pope is a virtual lock to turn down his $15.4 million player option and become an unrestricted free agent. KCP has outplayed his contract and proven to be an elite defender and an outstanding role player who contributes to winning.
He’s been a key part of the Nuggets starting lineup, helping them win a title and that’s after he played a key role in the Lakers winning a title a few years earlier. Players like KCP are a hot commodity on the open market, and there’s a shortage of marquee free agents this offseason. There’s a good chance that Caldwell-Pope will get a massive contract thrown in his direction, making it difficult for the Nuggets to retain his services.
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope could earn around $20 million annually as an unrestricted free agent.
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) May 25, 2024
Caldwell-Pope’s championship experience will be coveted by contenders, but also teams looking to take the next step towards playoff contention.
Keep an eye on the Sixers, Spurs and… pic.twitter.com/PL5L0oj2T3
Denver has almost no means to replace KCP and he’s vital to the team’s core, so I expect they’ll do everything they can to keep him. But they can’t afford to get too crazy with the other expenses coming due. This situation will be one of the biggest stories to watch this offseason and may totally alter the Nuggets’ viability as contenders next season.