The Denver Nuggets have actively reshaped their roster during the 2025 offseason with a clear focus on building around Nikola Jokic’s extraordinary talents. By trading Michael Porter Jr. and a future draft pick for Cameron Johnson, Denver has fortified its perimeter defense while maintaining offensive firepower, aiming to increase the depth necessary to sustain a championship run.

Additional moves, including bringing back Bruce Brown and signing Tim Hardaway Jr. on short-term contracts, emphasize flexibility and veteran leadership. Meanwhile, the trade for Jonas Valanciunas strengthens the low-post rotation, addressing a critical bench weakness. As the Nuggets head into the 2025-26 season, many are asking if these changes have finally provided the roster depth to complement Jokic’s brilliance.

Examining Denver’s Starting Five for 2025-26

The Nuggets’ starting lineup features Jamal Murray, Christian Braun, Cameron Johnson, Aaron Gordon, and Nikola Jokic. Jamal Murray remains a key offensive weapon, having produced 21.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game last season while shooting an efficient 47.4% from the field. His role as the primary scorer and playmaker alongside Jokic is pivotal for Denver.

Christian Braun offers steady two-way contributions, logging 15.4 points per game and playing nearly 34 minutes each night. Newcomer Cameron Johnson adds not only floor spacing through sharpshooting but also brings tenacious perimeter defense, enhancing what was once a starting wing spot held by Michael Porter Jr.

Aaron Gordon continues to provide versatility and clutch performances, averaging 14.7 points per game with a reliable 43.6% three-point shooting mark. His ability to rebound and defend makes him an invaluable part of the rotation. At the center, Nikola Jokic remains the undisputed leader, posting near-MVP numbers with averages of 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game, anchoring Denver’s attack on both ends of the floor.

Overview of the Nuggets’ Bench Strength

The depth behind the starters has been bolstered by key signings and trades. Bruce Brown’s return brings veteran championship experience and defensive reliability, despite a modest scoring average outside Denver last season. Julian Strawther, a young wing with upside, has shown promise with 9.0 points per game in limited minutes and could develop into a more significant scorer.

Peyton Watson complements the bench with his versatility and defensive energy, contributing 8.1 points per game as he emerges within the rotation. Frontcourt depth is now more formidable with DaRon Holmes II and Zeke Nnaji providing energy and size, while Jonas Valanciunas supplies veteran presence and toughness in the paint after coming in from Sacramento.

The addition of Valanciunas diminishes the previous drop-off in low-post intensity whenever Jokic rested, addressing a critical vulnerability. Still, questions remain regarding playmaking and ball handling when neither Jokic nor Murray is on the floor, but the overall improvement in depth is notable.

What Makes This Roster Strong

Denver’s starting lineup provides a potent offensive mix, combining the scoring prowess of Jamal Murray and Christian Braun with the versatility and spacing offered by Cameron Johnson and Aaron Gordon. Jokic’s ability to facilitate and score at an elite level ties this group together, creating balance and effectiveness on both ends of the court.

The arrival of experienced wing defenders like Johnson and Gordon enhances Denver’s perimeter defense, an area of previous concern. Gordon’s proven postseason ability, including critical game-winning shots and clutch performances, adds leadership under pressure. Their presence also allows Denver to manage starter minutes more effectively, offering valuable options during tight games.

Bench depth has taken a significant step forward compared to recent seasons. The combination of defenders and scorers like Strawther, Holmes, and Nnaji, along with the seasoned Valanciunas, has transformed Denver’s second unit into a group capable of sustaining physicality and defensive resilience. This balance of size and experience has the potential to keep the team competitive when the starters rest.

Areas That Still Raise Concerns

Despite improvements, the Nuggets still face challenges. The bench lacks a dependable secondary playmaker during Jokic and Murray’s rest periods, which affects late-game execution and ball movement. Missing out on adding a veteran creator like Chris Paul has left doubts about Denver’s ability to manage high-pressure offensive situations without their stars on the floor.

Financial limitations also impose constraints. The trade to acquire Cameron Johnson came at the cost of Michael Porter Jr., and the salary cap situation leaves little room for in-season maneuvering. This could hinder the Nuggets if injuries happen or depth issues arise as the grueling season progresses.

Additionally, recent changes in leadership have introduced uncertainty. With Michael Malone and Calvin Booth replaced, new head coach David Ademan and interim general manager roles bring fresh perspectives but also raise questions about stability. Whether Ademan can confidently guide the team to a championship remains to be seen.

Why Denver’s 2025-26 Team Is a Legitimate Title Contender

Denver’s revamped lineup presents a formidable challenge for the rest of the NBA. By strategically addressing perimeter defense, adding spacing, and reinforcing the frontcourt, the Nuggets have minimized many of their weaknesses from previous playoff runs. Anchored by Jokic’s unique skills, this roster appears equipped for the demands of an 82-game season and a deep playoff push.

Veteran contributors like Gordon, Johnson, and Valanciunas bring the toughness and situational experience that separate contenders from pretenders as the postseason advances. Their ability to absorb contact, adapt to shifting roles, and perform in critical moments affords Denver improved late-game resilience and versatility.

Even amid evolving management and financial constraints, Denver’s roster depth now better supports the high expectations placed on a team led by one of the world’s top players. If injuries are avoided and chemistry develops effectively, the Nuggets stand poised to transition from perennial semifinal contenders to NBA champions.