Nuggets Named Among Favorites to Land Heat’s $96 Million Guard in Offseason Trade
The **Denver Nuggets** are widely considered one of the frontrunners to acquire a high-priced guard from the **Miami Heat** this offseason, league insiders suggest. According to Athlon Sports, the Nuggets are “*among the favorites*” to land Miami’s seasoned backcourt option, who sports a \$96 million contract ([athlonsports.com][1]).
### Why Miami Could Be Willing to Make a Move
* **Cap flexibility & roster reshaping**: The Heat are believed to be open to trading this guard, especially if they aim to clear salary space or pivot toward a different lineup .
* **Possible replacements in the wings**: Miami also has internal options (like Davion Mitchell) and may believe they can rebuild depth without this veteran .
### What Denver Brings to the Table
* **Attractive assets**: Denver could offer a mix of young players and trade-ready contracts that appeal to the Heat’s strategy.
* **Complementary fit next to Jokic**: Adding a veteran guard with playmaking and scoring upside could further strengthen their title aspirations.
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### Trade Matchup Comparison
| Team | Motivations | Potential Trade Chips |
| —————— | ————————————— | ——————————————— |
| **Miami Heat** | Clear salary space, refresh the roster | Expiring deals, bench players |
| **Denver Nuggets** | Add backcourt depth, stack around Jokic | Young talent, draft assets, matching salaries |
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### What Could Happen Next?
* **Heavy communication expected**: Heat and Nuggets front offices are reportedly in contact, with both sides known to explore scenarios ahead of the draft ([athlonsports.com][1], [reddit.com][2], [sbnation.com][3]).
* **Timing critical**: With the **NBA Draft looming and free agency approaching**, both teams need to decide fast.
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### Broader Offseason Context
This rumor is part of a larger scramble across the **Western Conference**, where teams like Denver are evaluating whether to **restructure around Nikola Jokic**. Moving a \$96 million guard might clear room for more shooting or role players ([athlonsports.com][4]). Additionally, Denver has previously been linked to moves involving high-upside wings, underscores their desire for perimeter upgrades .
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### Rest of Nuggets’ Offseason Strategy
* **Michael Porter Jr.** could also be a trade candidate, as Denver juggles improving depth while staying under the luxury tax ([sbnation.com][5]).
* **Free agency moves**: The Nuggets are also eyeing mid-level guard additions like Ty Jerome to bolster their scoring and playmaking ([fearthesword.com][6]).
## Final Word
The **Denver Nuggets** appear primed to be the primary suitors if Miami decides to move on from their \$96 million guard. It’s a transaction that could benefit both franchises: Miami gains flexibility to reinvent; Denver adds a proven veteran to complement their championship window.
**Keep an eye on pre-draft discussions** as both teams seek clarity on their budgets, roster directions, and trade partner availablity.
