The Nuggets have significant interest in a deal for Bulls wing Zach LaVine, The Athletic’s Sam Amick and Tony Jones report.
Denver is active in the market for an offensive upgrade at the wing position to ease some of the burden off Nikola Jokic. LaVine would certainly fit that bill, though he’s had more than his share of injury issues. LaVine is averaging 21.7 points and 4.2 assists this season. He’s a career 46.6% shooter, including 38.4% from deep.
He’s also got a very large contract — $43MM this season, $45.9 MM next season and a $48.9MM player option for 2026/27.
Any big trade Denver might make would likely involve Michael Porter Jr., according to The Athletic duo. Porter is making $35.8MM this season, $38.3MM next season and $40.8MM in 2026/27, though only $12MM is guaranteed in that final year of the contract.
Porter is off to a strong start statistically, averaging 18.5 points, 7.1 rebounds and 2.8 assists. He’s shooting 51.2% overall and 38.5% on 3-point attempts.
So why is Denver willing to part with him? The Nuggets are seeking help in the form of someone who is able to create offense. Jokić and Jamal Murray are the only players on the roster who are consistently capable of creating their own shots, The Athletic notes.
Sparingly-used forward Zeke Nnaji, a 2020 first-round pick, is also available. He’s signed through the 2027/28 season on a four-year, $32MM deal that includes a player option.
LaVine isn’t the only player the Nuggets are looking at. They have also expressed interest or have had preliminary trade discussions regarding Jordan Poole, Jordan Clarkson, De’Andre Hunter, Cameron Johnson and Jonas Valanciunas. Brandon Ingram, currently sidelined by an ankle injury, is also on the Nuggets’ radar, SNY TV’s Ian Begley tweets.