Why Are the Nuggets Interested in Bogdanovic?

The Nuggets have long been searching for a secondary scoring option capable of operating alongside Jokić, the NBA’s reigning MVP. Bogdanovic, a 31-year-old veteran with 15 NBA seasons of experience, would provide:

• Scoring versatility: Bogdanovic averaged 19.6 points per game last season, shooting 41.5% from three-point range while also contributing 4.6 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game.
• Playoff-proven: He led the Kings to the 2023 playoffs and has appeared in postseason action in five of his last six seasons.
• Defensive upside: While not a lockdown defender, Bogdanovic has shown improved lateral quickness in recent years, particularly in switchable matchups.

Sources close to the negotiations indicate the Nuggets are willing to offer a package centered around a 2025 first-round pick and a protected 2026 second-rounder, though exact terms remain fluid.

How Would This Trade Impact Denver’s Roster?

If completed, the Bogdanovic acquisition would force the Nuggets to make tough decisions about their current roster construction. Key implications:

1. Offensive Load Management

Jokić has carried an unprecedented scoring load in recent seasons, averaging 27.1 points per game last campaign while maintaining elite playmaking numbers (8.1 assists per game). Adding Bogdanovic would:

• Reduce Jokić’s shot attempts from 23.5 per game in 2024-25 to an estimated 18-20 per game, potentially extending his prime.
• Create a more balanced offensive attack with three true primary scorers (Jokić, Bogdanovic, and Jamal Murray).
• Allow Michael Porter Jr. to return to his preferred role as a stretch-four rather than a primary offensive initiator.

2. Trade Deadline Fallout

The Nuggets would likely need to move at least one player to create cap space for Bogdanovic’s $32.3 million salary in 2025-26. Potential targets include:

• Kentavious Caldwell-Pope: The veteran wing has become expendable with the arrival of Devin Vassell.
• Zeke Nnaji: His production has declined since the arrival of Jalen Green.
• A young draft pick: The Nuggets could package a 2026 first-rounder with a future second.

What Would This Mean for the Nuggets’ Playoff Picture?

With the Western Conference’s top seed currently projected to be the Nuggets or Lakers, adding Bogdanovic would:

• Strengthen their playoff resume: The Kings finished 44-38 last season, while Bogdanovic’s presence would add veteran leadership to a young core.
• Create a more versatile lineup: The ability to space the floor with three proven three-point shooters (Jokić, Murray, Bogdanovic) would make defenses pay across all five positions.
• Provide insurance against injuries: With Jokić’s workload already at historic levels, having a secondary option would mitigate risk if he faces fatigue or injury.

According to NBA league sources, the Nuggets are particularly interested in Bogdanovic’s ability to operate as a secondary playmaker, which would complement Jokić’s ball-dominant style while providing an additional outlet for transition scoring.

How Does This Compare to Recent Nuggets Trade Activity?

The Nuggets have been active in the trade market this offseason, most notably acquiring Devin Vassell from the Hawks in exchange for Christian Wood and a 2027 first-round pick. That move was designed to address their need for perimeter scoring and defense. Adding Bogdanovic would represent a more traditional “veteran presence” acquisition rather than a developmental gamble.

Key differences:

While Vassell provides more immediate defensive impact, Bogdanovic would offer a more complete offensive package, including elite three-point shooting and the ability to create his own shot.

What Are the Kings’ Likely Trade Partners?

The Sacramento Kings have been linked to multiple trade scenarios this offseason, including:

• Exploring deals for De’Aaron Fox or Tyrese Haliburton
• Discussions with the Mavericks about a package for Spencer Dinwiddie
• Interest from the Suns in creating cap space

According to Sports Illustrated sources, the Kings are reportedly seeking a young, high-upside player in return for Bogdanovic, with particular interest in:

• A 2025 first-round pick (lottery-protected)
• A 2026 first-round pick (protected)
• A young wing with NBA-level skills (similar to what the Nuggets are offering)

The Nuggets’ interest aligns with the Kings’ stated preference for younger assets, though exact matchups remain uncertain.

What Would This Mean for Denver’s Draft Strategy?

The Nuggets hold the 10th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, which they would likely use to address their need for:

• A stretch big man to complement Jokić and Porter Jr.
• A defensive wing to pair with Murray and Vassell.

If they acquire Bogdanovic, the Nuggets could:

• Use their 2025 first-rounder to address their biggest need (likely a center or power forward).
• Package their 2026 first-rounder as part of the Bogdanovic deal, while keeping their 2025 pick protected.
• Focus on developing young wings like Jalen Green and Christian Braun in the meantime.

Analysts suggest the Nuggets would prioritize a player with the physical tools to defend multiple positions, given their current roster construction.

Key Takeaways

• The Nuggets are in serious discussions with the Kings about acquiring Bogdanovic, with terms reportedly centered around draft picks.
• This move would address Denver’s need for a secondary scorer while potentially reducing Jokić’s workload.
• The trade would require the Nuggets to make roster moves at the trade deadline to create cap space.
• Bogdanovic’s addition would strengthen Denver’s playoff resume and provide veteran leadership for a young core.
• The Kings appear willing to trade Bogdanovic for young assets, making the Nuggets’ draft capital particularly valuable in negotiations.

What Happens Next?

The timeline for this potential trade remains uncertain, but key milestones include:

• June 12: NBA Draft Combine begins in Chicago (trade talks could accelerate or stall based on draft developments).
• June 26: 2025 NBA Draft (the Nuggets’ 10th pick could become a trade chip if they acquire Bogdanovic).
• July 1: Free agency begins (the Nuggets may need to move quickly to create cap space).
• July 7: Trade deadline (if no deal is done by then, the Nuggets would need to address roster construction through free agency or waivers).

The Nuggets’ front office has maintained radio silence on trade rumors, but sources indicate Michael Malone and general manager Calvin Booth have been actively exploring options to strengthen the roster around Jokić.