Nuggets News: $23 Million Decision Could Fill Nikola Jokic & Co’s Void Amid 2x Champion’s Exit Rumors

Losing to the Wolves in the second playoff round, the Nuggets failed to achieve their dream of becoming back-to-back champs. However, they might be at risk of losing a key member of their roster, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. That will painfully push them even further away from winning a ring. However, amid the rumors, Nikola Jokic and Co. have received a glimmer of hope as a beloved star might be available to fill the void if need be.

As per the latest reports, the Raptors are expected to exercise Bruce Brown’s $23 million team option and use him as a “trade chip” this summer. Upping his market value after an impressive performance in last year’s Finals and helping the Nuggets win a chip, Brown signed a two-year $45 million contract with the Pacers. However, before he could even complete one year in Indiana, Brown was traded to the Raptors earlier this season, among other assets, in exchange for Pascal Siakam.

As it turns out, Brown does not fit the long-term plans in Toronto even though he averaged nearly ten points and four rebounds for them. And this could be an opportunity for the Nuggets to swoop in and reclaim their lost star. Even when Brown left Denver last year, GM Calvin Booth was devastated by his departure, saying, “That blow was big.” That’s because Brown was one of the major reasons why the Nuggets won against Miami in the Finals last year. Brown averaged 11.4 points and over 4 boards. Dropping a 21-point performance in the fourth game, Brown proved he was an asset for any title-contending team. What’s the case with KCP then?

Defending Champions Denver faces a typical problem with KCP

Winning a Championship does have its perks. However, it also comes with some serious future concerns. A reason why teams aren’t often able to repeat their title win is because they cannot afford to keep the stars that helped them win. Mainly because of their increased market value. And the Nuggets are facing the same problem with KCP. Now a two-time Champion, KCP’s contract ends next season. He has a $15.4 million player option in hand. But his impressive performances in the playoffs prove he can win titles. Another perspective would be to believe that KCP has outplayed his contract and would be expecting a bigger paycheck.

The Nuggets would undoubtedly love to have him for a few more years. But it is possible they might not be able to offer him the deal he expects. With Denver’s risk of getting stuck in the second apron of luxury tax for several years, other teams might be willing to offer KCP more money this summer. That will also limit the Nuggets’ options to build their roster.

KCP could opt out of his player option and test free agency for a better offer somewhere else too. In that scenario, the Nuggets would prefer having a player like Bruce Brown back who could make up for KCP’s departure and keep their roster deep and strong.

What do you think? Let us know in the comments below.

Before you go, do not forget to check out what Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, has to say about Caitlin Clark’s meteoric rise to stardom. Keep checking this space for more such updates.