The Denver Nuggets are emerging as strong contenders to acquire veteran forward DeMar DeRozan from the Sacramento Kings in a potential offseason trade. This speculation follows their elimination in the 2025 NBA Playoffs after a seven-game series against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Despite the loss, the Nuggets demonstrated resilience, suggesting that with strategic additions, they could be poised for a championship run in the 2025–26 season.
A significant point of discussion has been the need for additional support for star center Nikola Jokić. Hall of Famer Paul Pierce has advocated for the Nuggets to trade forward Michael Porter Jr. for DeRozan, emphasizing that DeRozan’s consistent scoring and veteran presence could provide the stability and experience the team needs.
DeRozan, a six-time All-Star, has maintained an average of over 20 points per game for 12 consecutive seasons. In the 2024–25 season with the Kings, he averaged 22.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game, showcasing his reliability and scoring prowess.
While the Miami Heat are currently the betting favorites to land DeRozan, the Nuggets are also among the top contenders, trailing only the Heat, Los Angeles Lakers, and Toronto Raptors. Acquiring DeRozan could significantly bolster the Nuggets’ roster, providing Jokić with a dependable scoring partner and enhancing their championship aspirations.
