The Denver Nuggets entered Thursday night with a golden opportunity—a chance to force a Game 7 against the Minnesota Timberwolves on their home floor. But instead of seizing the moment, they fell flat, losing 110-98. Even without Anthony Edwards, Donte DiVincenzo, and Ayo Dosunmu, the Wolves dominated. Jaden McDaniels looked like a superstar, dropping 32 points, and the Nuggets had no answer.
This season, Denver earned the No. 3 seed in a brutal Western Conference by lighting up scoreboards—they led the league with 122.1 points per game. But offense alone couldn't mask a defense that ranked bottom-10 in the NBA. That's the glaring weakness that ended their playoff run.
So, what's the fix? The Nuggets don't need more star power. Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray are locked in. What they need are gritty, high-IQ defenders who can guard the perimeter and take pressure off their stars. Here are eight players Denver should target this summer to bring back the toughness—and maybe make a bold trade for a familiar villain.
1. Herb Jones – New Orleans Pelicans
Jones is a defensive nightmare for opposing wings. He's long, smart, and can guard multiple positions. A deal built around Aaron Gordon or Cameron Johnson could bring him to Denver.
2. Yves Missi – New Orleans Pelicans
The rookie big man is raw offensively, but he's a shot-blocking presence who can anchor second units. Pairing him with Jokić would give Denver a defensive safety net.
3. Jalen Suggs – Orlando Magic
Suggs is overpaid for the next four years, but he's an elite on-ball defender who can also create offense. If the Magic blow their series lead against Detroit, roster changes could make him available. He'd instantly fix Denver's biggest weakness at the point of attack.
4. Draymond Green – Golden State Warriors
Yes, he's past his prime. Yes, he can be a headache. But Denver doesn't need the 2017 version of Green. They need his basketball IQ, his defensive instincts, and his nasty edge. A bold trade for Green could be the spark this team needs to get over the hump.
5. Alex Caruso – Chicago Bulls
Caruso is the ultimate glue guy. He defends, he hustles, and he doesn't need the ball to impact winning. He'd be a perfect fit alongside Murray and Jokić.
6. Matisse Thybulle – Portland Trail Blazers
Thybulle is a defensive specialist who can guard 1 through 3. His offense is limited, but with Denver's firepower, that's fine. He'd be a low-cost, high-impact addition.
7. Isaiah Stewart – Detroit Pistons
"Beef Stew" brings physicality and toughness. He can guard centers and power forwards, and he's not afraid to mix it up. The Nuggets need that kind of attitude.
8. Bruce Brown – Indiana Pacers
Brown was a key piece of Denver's championship run in 2023. He's a versatile defender, a smart cutter, and a playoff-tested winner. Bringing him back would be a reunion that makes sense for both sides.
The Nuggets have the offensive firepower to compete with anyone. Now it's time to build a defense that can match. Whether it's a young stopper like Herb Jones or a controversial veteran like Draymond Green, Denver needs to get tougher—and fast.