The Denver Nuggets fell just short in the second round of the NBA Playoffs.
After firing long-time head coach Michael Malone with only a few regular season games remaining, David Adelman helped the Nuggets take the No. 1-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder seven games deep.
It's clear the Nuggets can still compete at a high level with their current squad -- even with an interim head coach at the helm -- though changes will need to be made.
Nikola Jokic, a three-time MVP winner and NBA champion, provides an elite building block for any franchise. The Nuggets will need to capitalize on his greatness by making the necessary tweaks.
Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon (32) and center Nikola Jokic (15).
Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon (32) and center Nikola Jokic (15).
© Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
One player who was in the spotlight during the playoffs was Michael Porter Jr. He struggled to make any real impact in the playoffs.
Chatter emerged regarding Denver's roster and pending changes this offseason. However, a recent unexpected update could lend a hand in what the club is planning to do this offseason, as reported by Sam Amico.
“So even Nikola Jokic as the main man, the Nuggets still need help. Sources say they’re hesitant to part ways with core members of their 2023 championship team — Jamal Murray, Aaron Gordon, Michael Porter Jr., and now, Christian Braun. Obviously, Jokic isn’t going anywhere," Amico reported.
Jokic being untradable is quite obvious. He's a generational talent and, unless Nico Harrison is involved, those types of players don't get dealt without forcing a trade.
Aaron Gordon has been brilliant in his role alongside Jokic and the squad. Outside of that duo -- and maybe Christian Braun -- any Nuggets player should be available for trade.
With a fresh head coach and general manager, Denver shouldn't be scared to make moves if it means more of a chance to compete with Jokic in his prime.