Julian Strawther transitioned from a marginal rotation player during his rookie season to a key contributor for the Denver Nuggets in 2024-25, significantly increasing his playing time until an MCL sprain after the All-Star break curtailed his minutes. His development throughout the year reflected the typical ups and downs expected from a sophomore player entrusted with a challenging role in the rotation, and his 2024-25 season performance review demonstrates both promise and areas needing improvement.

Analyzing Statistical Growth and On-Court Contributions

Strawther appeared in 65 games, averaging 9.0 points, 2.2 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and 0.6 steals in just over 21 minutes per outing. His shooting efficiency improved notably, with a 34.9% success rate from beyond the arc and a True Shooting Percentage of 55.9%. These figures are encouraging for a second-year player, particularly given the defensive attention he faced as one of Denver’s primary floor spacers. Strawther’s scoring versatility was apparent in multiple games, although his defensive consistency and physicality remained problematic throughout the season.

Highs and Lows: Memorable Games and Performance Challenges

Julian showed flashes of exciting shotmaking in his final three starts before the All-Star break but also demonstrated frustration, such as the incident where he accumulated four fouls in just 90 seconds against the Los Angeles Lakers shortly after the break. His ability to score both with and without the ball is promising; however, his defensive shortcomings were clearly exposed. A month-long injury in early March further hampered his ability to make a significant impact in the playoffs.

Strawther’s Playoff Role and Key Contributions

During the first-round playoff series against the Los Angeles Clippers, Strawther primarily saw garbage time minutes, appearing to be a non-factor initially. His involvement increased in the second round versus the Oklahoma City Thunder, where he participated in every game except the overtime victory in Game 3. While still inconsistent, his shooting performance in the games he played was crucial, particularly in Game 6, where he scored 15 second-half points off the bench. This effort was vital in extending Denver’s playoff run and demonstrated his capability as a reliable floor-spacing wing with situational defensive competence.

Teammate Perspectives on Strawther’s Potential

“We all know what he’s capable of. He just needs to see the floor, get a rhythm, put some time in…you can see how he can impact the game real quick in a high pressure moment,”

shared Jamal Murray after Strawther’s crucial Game 6 performance to keep Denver’s season alive.

Future Outlook and Areas for Development

The Nuggets’ expectations for Strawther in his second season were largely met: increased minutes, improved production, and better efficiency compared to his rookie year. Defensive weaknesses continue to be a concern that must be addressed if he hopes to sustain and grow his role. Plans for off-season conditioning and athletic improvement are anticipated to help him better withstand physical challenges from opposing players in future contests. Offensively, Strawther possesses skills that contribute beneficially at all levels, even if he has yet to fully bring all facets of his game together consistently.

Contract Status and Role Evolution Prospects

Currently in the second year of the rookie contract signed prior to the 2023-24 season, Strawther has two more seasons before reaching restricted free agency in 2027. He evolved from playing just 500 minutes as a rookie to solidifying himself as a dependable eighth or ninth man on a 50-win Nuggets squad. His trajectory suggests potential to take on greater responsibilities, but it remains to be seen how much the team will expand his role going forward.

Addressing Denver’s Shooting Needs and Strategic Considerations

The Nuggets face challenges with outside shooting volume and look primarily beyond their current roster for solutions. Nonetheless, there is an opportunity for Strawther to increase his usage as Denver aims to develop a scoring attack capable of challenging the league’s top defenses. Ultimately, his ability to secure a larger role depends on performance during training camp and preseason, where the team will assess his readiness to contribute more consistently at the NBA level.