Nikola Jokic has expressed concerns about the Denver Nuggets’ lack of strong shooters, highlighting a key area the team needs to address. The Nuggets’ shooting struggles were apparent in their 87-102 season-opening loss to the OKC Thunder, where they shot just 7 of 38 from three-point range. Jokic acknowledged that, apart from Michael Porter Jr. and Jamal Murray, the rest of the team consists of “average shooters,” underscoring the need for better shooting support.
To improve their offensive efficiency, the Nuggets could explore acquiring one of these three potential sharpshooters:
1. Bogdan Bogdanovic
Jokic’s Serbian teammate Bogdanovic, currently with the Atlanta Hawks, could be a good fit for the Nuggets. Despite being under contract until 2027 with a $17.6 million salary, a trade could happen if the Hawks pivot to a youth-focused rebuild. The Nuggets, however, would likely need a third team involved to make the finances work, given their salary cap constraints. Trading for Bogdanovic might cost them multiple bench players, but it could be worth it to bring in much-needed shooting.
2. Duncan Robinson
Robinson, one of the league’s top three-point shooters, could thrive in Denver’s system, benefiting from Jokic’s playmaking. He boasts a 39.8% career three-point shooting percentage, and his quick-release shot could make him a perfect addition to the Nuggets. However, his $19.4 million salary would also require a complex trade, possibly involving multiple players from Denver’s bench. While Robinson’s defense is a concern, his elite shooting could be a significant boost.
3. Aaron Nesmith
Nesmith, a young and improving shooter from the Indiana Pacers, might be another option. With a career three-point shooting rate of 37.5%, he has shown promise as a reliable scorer. Acquiring Nesmith, who has a more manageable $11 million contract, could be simpler than the other options, but the Nuggets would likely need to part with draft picks or key role players to entice the Pacers to trade him.
The Nuggets are in a bind with their salary cap, but adding one of these shooters could significantly improve their offensive potency while complementing Jokic’s playmaking skills.
