Key Nuggets free agent makes interesting off-court decision ahead of crucial summer

Most of the focus for the Nuggets ahead of this offseason has been on Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, his impending player-option decision, and then his likely unrestricted free agency. The focus is completely warranted; KCP has been an integral part of this team on both ends of the court. His departure would be the end of an era for the Nuggets and their elite starting lineup, and they would have extremely limited means to replace him. 

It’s the number one story and rightfully so. Keeping him will and should be the team’s top priority this offseason, but it can’t be the only one. Whether or not Caldwell-Pope returns to Denver, the team has some clear holes and glaring weaknesses across the roster. Most of those issues stem from their lack of depth and bench options.

Nuggets can't forget about non KCP free agents

Another looming free agent for the Nuggets who was one of the more reliable bench players this season is Justin Holiday. Brother of now two-time NBA champion Jrue Holiday, Justin provided solid defense and shooting for the Nuggets this season on a veterans minimum contract and was one of the few players who earned Michael Malone’s trust when the chips were down against the Timberwolves.

Now, the 33-year-old Holiday is an unrestricted free agent this offseason. Surely, the Nuggets would love to have him back, but they can’t afford to offer more than another minimum contract and they really need to see how the KCP situation plays out before making any other moves.

Justin Holiday signs with new agency

There has been very little talk about what Holiday may want for himself, but on Tuesday, news came out that Holiday was switching agencies and has now signed with Octagon Sports. Octagon has a strong reputation in the game, working with NBA clients including Steph Curry, Bam Adebayo, and others.

The timing of this move is interesting and perhaps somewhat problematic for the Nuggets. Reading between the lines a bit here, Holiday is a veteran player who has been a fringe rotation player for his entire career. He’s certainly not living in poverty but he’s made roughly $35 million over the course of his time in the NBA.

Move indicates Holiday will likely explore all options

That’s nothing to scoff at, but it’s not exactly generational wealth for a modern-day NBA player. Players don’t usually change agents if they are happy with the contracts and offers they’ve been receiving. So adding everything up, I tend to believe Holiday is looking for a (relatively) big payday and would like a deal with multiple years for more than the minimum.

It would be great to see Holiday back with the Nuggets next season, but all signs point to him exploring his options on the market and looking for a better contract than Denver can offer. It would be tough to see another solid role player leave for nothing, but that’s the reality of the situation.