Aaron Gordon and 7 Nuggets who might not return after playoff train wreck
Nugg Love • • sports
Key Points:
- The Denver Nuggets face a challenging offseason after a disappointing first-round loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, with salary cap concerns forcing tough roster decisions ahead of the 2026-27 season.
- Key players Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray are expected to remain unless drastic changes occur, but several role players and free agents, including Tyus Jones, Spencer Jones, and Bruce Brown, are unlikely to return.
- Tim Hardaway Jr.'s strong season may price him out of the Nuggets' budget, while Jonas Valanciunas is a candidate for trade or release due to underperformance and a looming $10 million contract.
- The Nuggets may need to trade either Cam Johnson or Christian Braun to clear cap space for re-signing restricted free agent Peyton Watson, who is expected to command a significant contract.
- Aaron Gordon's health concerns and $33 million contract make him a potential trade candidate as the Nuggets look to manage salary and roster flexibility moving forward.
