The Denver Nuggets were looking to improve their center depth behind three-time MVP Nikola Jokić. They did just that by signing Marvin Bagley III to a one-year veteran minimum contract.
How We Got Here:
The Nuggets are coming off a disappointing season that saw them finish third in the Western Conference but suffer a first-round defeat to the Minnesota Timberwolves. They struggled with injuries, with Jokic missing significant time, and when he came back, he didn’t look like the same player that had been dominating the league.
Bagley, on the other hand, has had one of the most unconventional paths to the Nuggets. He was drafted second overall by the Sacramento Kings in 2018 ahead of several future All-Stars. However, injuries and inconsistent opportunities prevented him from developing into the franchise cornerstone many envisioned. He would make stops in Detroit, Washington, Memphis, and Dallas.
Last season with the Wizards and Mavericks, he averaged a smooth 10.5 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.4 assists while shooting 61.8% from the field. He was a solid contributor off the bench for both teams, appearing in 60 games and flashing the athleticism and offensive versatility that made him such a coveted prospect coming out of Duke.
His Impact:
His fit with the Nuggets makes all the sense in the world. They struggled without Jokic on the floor, and this gives them some insurance for injuries. Bagley is an athletic big capable of playing both power forward and center, meaning that he can play with the second unit or alongside the starting unit if needed.
Aside from giving the Nuggets insurance for Jokic, Bagley can play alongside Jokic. Few centers create easier scoring opportunities for teammates, and Bagley’s strengths align perfectly with that style of offense. His ability to dive to the rim, finish lobs, and capitalize on offensive rebounds could make him a productive second-unit option while allowing Denver to maintain its offensive identity when rotating lineups.
This move brings the Nuggets back toward their ultimate goal of making the Finals again. Additionally, it gives Bagley a legitimate chance to revive his career while helping Denver.
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