The good, the bad, and the ugly from Denver Nuggets Summer League

The Bad: Jalen Pickett & Hunter Tyson don’t look ready

The Nuggets were counting on a leap into the rotation from all three of their second-year players; Strawther, Jalen Pickett, and Hunter Tyson. But through three Summer League games, the only one that has impressed is Strawther.

There were hopes that Pickett would be ready to step up and assume the backup point guard spot vacated by Reggie Jackson, but that doesn’t seem feasible. Pickett has struggled mightily and frankly, looks like a worse player than he did last year in the G-League and at the Summer League.

It’s concerning with his age and experience that he looks pretty lost out there. His contract is guaranteed so we’ll see what the team chooses to do, but based on what we’ve seen there is no way he can start the year in the rotation.

Tyson has looked slightly better, he’s at least been aggressive in seeking out his offense. But he’s struggled with his shot, hasn’t scored efficiently, and hasn’t been able to do much else. He has struggled to rebound and defend and even the offense feels forced. Much like Pickett, I’m not sure how this team can enter the season with Tyson playing real minutes. 

Unfortunately, it’s looking more and more like the Nuggets may have blown two draft picks and guaranteed roster spots.