Mock Trade Sends $42M Two-Way Wing to Nuggets to Strengthen Bench

Mock Trade Sends $42M Two-Way Wing to Nuggets to Strengthen Bench

A proposed trade scenario envisions the Denver Nuggets acquiring Phoenix Suns forward Royce O’Neale, a versatile 3-and-D contributor, to enhance their roster depth.

Following consecutive second-round playoff exits, Denver reshaped its lineup in the offseason, positioning itself as a serious contender in the Western Conference. The Nuggets kicked off their summer moves by trading Michael Porter Jr. to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for sharpshooter Cameron Johnson. The deal not only added perimeter scoring but also created cap flexibility.

With the freed-up budget, Denver signed Bruce Brown and Tim Hardaway Jr. in free agency and landed Jonas Valanciunas from the Sacramento Kings in a swap for Dario Saric. These additions fortified the supporting cast around stars Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, and Aaron Gordon, aiming to fuel another championship push.

Royce O’Neale Emerges as a Trade Target

As the trade deadline approaches, Denver may continue to tweak its roster. One potential acquisition is veteran wing Royce O’Neale, who remains a fixture in trade speculation as Phoenix reshapes its squad.

In a hypothetical deal, the Nuggets could send Zeke Nnaji, Jalen Pickett, and draft assets to the Suns in return for O’Neale. While Denver might hesitate to include draft picks, it may be necessary to offset Nnaji’s contract.

Despite the cost, O’Neale’s arrival would significantly elevate Denver’s second unit. Last season, the 32-year-old averaged 9.1 points, 4.7 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and nearly a steal per game, shooting 42.3% from the field and an impressive 40.6% from beyond the arc.

His defensive versatility and shooting would make him a valuable bench piece alongside Hardaway Jr., Brown, Valanciunas, and Peyton Watson—addressing depth concerns that plagued Denver last season.

Adding O’Neale would plug a key gap in the rotation and potentially boost the Nuggets toward another deep playoff run, with Jokic anchoring their title ambitions. Still, Denver may explore other options to further reinforce its roster as the season progresses.