2. Monte Morris
The former Nugget can be traded right now, but Denver would have to wait until Dec. 15 for Reggie Jackson, DeAndre Jordan, or Justin Holiday to be able to be sent out as matching salary in the deal. Jackson’s $5.0 million salary will likely be a key contract if the Nuggets decide to make a trade before the deadline.
Morris is on a $9.8 million expiring deal and is currently out with a quad injury. He has not played this season and it was announced he would miss six to eight more weeks in late November. Fans should not expect to see the 6’2 guard until mid-January, but the Pistons will look to move him before the deadline. They are 2-20 on the season and headed toward another high lottery selection.
The Nuggets drafted Morris in the second round in 2017, and he played his first five years in Denver. They traded him to get Kentaivous Caldwell-Pope in the 2022 offseason, but he remains a skilled guard. He can space the floor, defend, and make plays. Morris would be a fantastic reserve option for a contender if he can get healthy.
The Denver Nuggets will explore every avenue to improve their roster, and Monte Morris figures to be a low-cost option that could provide significant postseason impact.