Bold 3-Team Trade Could Reinvent Denver Nuggets’ Title Hopes
A major trade proposal has surfaced that could revitalize the Denver Nuggets by acquiring Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen through a three-team transaction. This move would offer star center Nikola Jokic and point guard Jamal Murray a fresh and dynamic co-star as the team eyes another championship run.
Despite Nikola Jokic still playing at an elite level, it’s becoming evident that the Nuggets must reinforce their roster to avoid settling for just a single championship title.
Team Performance Overview:
- Denver Nuggets’ Stats This Season:
- Points per game: 118.8
- Field goal percentage: 49.7%
- Western Conference standing: 4th place
- Win range: 83–149
- Top scorer: Nikola Jokic
The team’s campaign ended in disappointment after a hard-fought 4-3 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference semifinals.
To address the gap, Bleacher Report analyst Greg Schwartz has floated an aggressive trade scenario, suggesting that Denver could land Lauri Markkanen—an All-Star forward from the Jazz.
According to Schwartz:
“Denver should be urgently pursuing a third star to complement Jokic and Murray, all while maintaining roster depth. By swapping Michael Porter Jr. for Markkanen, the Nuggets upgrade their starting small forward and shed Nnaji’s underperforming contract, all at the cost of a future first-round pick.”
He added that a revised starting lineup featuring Murray, Christian Braun, Markkanen, Aaron Gordon, and Jokic would significantly enhance Denver’s title prospects by increasing size and perimeter shot creation.
Michael Porter Jr., despite his offensive strengths, has frequently been the subject of trade speculation due to his inconsistent defense and recurring injuries, which have cast doubt on his long-term role with the franchise.
Proposed Three-Team Trade Details:
- Denver Nuggets receive:
- F Lauri Markkanen
- Charlotte Hornets receive:
- F Michael Porter Jr.
- Utah Jazz receive:
- G/F Josh Green
- PF Grant Williams
- F Josh Okogie
- F/C Zeke Nnaji
- 2027 first-round pick (lottery-protected, via Miami through Charlotte)
- 2032 first-round pick (unprotected, via Denver)
This potential blockbuster aims to shake up Denver’s roster with a strategic upgrade while managing salary and future draft assets effectively.
