13 People who turned their backs on the Denver Nuggets

The Denver Nuggets were not always one of the best teams in the NBA. This is the golden era of basketball in the Mile High City. Nikola Jokic is about to win his third MVP honor and is already the franchise’s GOAT after leading them to their first championship. The Nuggets are no strangers to the playoffs and hope to build a dynasty around the Joker.

It has not always been this bright in Denver. The front office is no stranger to mistakes. From failed draft picks to trades that do not work, the Nuggets have struggled to build a consistent contender, but it is not always the fault of the organization.

They are no strangers to drama and turmoil. From trade requests to toxicity to off-court issues, the Nuggets have dealt with plenty of personnel headaches over their first 57 seasons. These people went against the organization and forced their way out of town.

13. Tim Connelly

Connelly played a key role in building the current Nuggets. He joined the franchise as general manager in 2013 replacing Masai Ujiri after stints with the Wizards and Pelicans. Connelly rose to president of basketball operations in 2017. He drafted Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, and Michael Porter Jr. during his time leading their front office, along with trading for Aaron Gordon.

Tim Connelly left the Nuggets in 2022 to become the Timberwolves president of basketball operations. He got more money, but it was disappointing to see him leave the contender he built in the Mile High City. The Nuggets won the championship during Connelly’s first season in Minnesota.

Everyone wanted him to see it through in Denver, but the offer in Minnesota was just too strong to pass on. It was upsetting to see him go to a division and conference rival, but there were no hard feelings. Things could change if the two teams have some playoff wars over the next few years. The Denver Nuggets wish all of these departures went so easy, but things get significantly spicier on this list.