The Denver Nuggets have been at the center of more than a few rumors leading up to the draft, and it’ll be interesting if anything pans out. They currently hold the 11th pick in the draft and are in position to acquire a solid player to add to their already deep roster.
The Nuggets are not a team that lack depth and doesn’t have an overwhelming need at any one position. Therefore, they have the luxury of taking the best talent on the board or even trading the pick in a package deal for an immediate impact player.
They have been in trade talks with the Timberwolves in order to acquire Kevin Love, but it’s highly likely such a trade won’t occur. There’s also been speculation in trading down with the Chicago Bulls if one of the guards they’re interested in is still available.
If the Nuggets are to keep to their first round pick they’ll look to add the best talent available or a point guard to help back up Ty Lawson.
Here are some of the prospects the Nuggets are considering drafting:
Dario Saric
6-10, 223-pound small forward from Croatia is one of the most productive players overseas and has been on the first-round radar for years now. He’s not overly athletic but he’s very agile and shifty for a guy his size and is incredibly versatile on offense. Biggest concerns will be at the defensive end developing a consistent jump shot. He won’t be eligible to come to the NBA for 2 years but could be worth the wait.
Elfrid Payton
6-4, 170-pound point guard from Louisiana-Lafayette has the size, length, and athleticism to play point guard in the NBA. With a 6’8” wing span and quickness to match, he has the potential to be an adequate defensive player. He’s extremely limited by his lack of a jump shot, which he must develop if he hopes to make a name for himself at the next level.
Gary Harris
6-4, 205 pound shooting guard from Michigan State is a solid fundamental player with good footwork. He won’t blow anyone away with his athleticism but he can provide stability and 2 guard depth to the rotation. He also needs to work on his shot selection more.
Nik Stauskas
6-6, 205-pound guard from Michigan is a pure shooter with excellent range (44% career 3 point shooter) with good ball handling skills for a 2 guard. His lack of foot speed and overall quickness make him limited on defense and a one-dimensional player.
Zach Lavine
6-6, 181-pound shooting guard from UCLA uses his blinding speed and vertical prowess to dominate the open floor. He has two-way guard upside with his athleticism and shooting capability. The biggest question on him is his lack of experience.