The Denver Nuggets are exploring ways to reshape their roster around Nikola Jokic, and they have indicated a willingness to discuss a trade package centered on forward Zeke Nnaji and the No. 26 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.
Denver’s motivation is tied to its financial situation. The Nuggets are projected to approach the NBA’s second apron, creating pressure to reduce salary commitments and improve roster flexibility. Nnaji is owed $7.47 million for the 2026-27 season and holds a $7.47 million player option for 2027-28, making his contract a potential tool in trade discussions.
The 25-year-old forward played a limited role during the 2025-26 season, averaging 3.7 points, 2.6 rebounds and 0.6 assists in 12.0 minutes per game over 52 appearances. Nnaji shot 47.0 percent from the field but connected on only 25.9 percent of his three-point attempts, limiting his offensive impact.
However, his contract value and positional versatility could make him useful in salary-matching scenarios. Nnaji has shown the ability to defend multiple frontcourt positions and has averaged 0.5 blocks per game this season, adding some interior presence behind Denver’s primary bigs.
The Nuggets enter the offseason after finishing 54-28 and third in the Western Conference. Denver advanced to the playoffs but was eliminated in the second round by the Minnesota Timberwolves in six games.
Denver’s roster remains built around Jokic and Jamal Murray, who averaged 25.4 points and 7.1 assists while earning All-NBA Third Team honors. The Nuggets also received major contributions from Aaron Gordon, Peyton Watson and offseason addition Tim Hardaway Jr., but their depth and financial flexibility remain areas of focus.
The No. 26 pick gives Denver additional leverage. The 2026 NBA Draft class includes several highly regarded prospects, including forwards AJ Dybantsa, Cameron Boozer and Caleb Wilson, along with guards Darryn Peterson and Darius Acuff Jr. A late first-round pick can also be attractive to teams seeking cost-controlled talent under the league’s current salary structure.
The Nuggets previously prioritized continuity around Jokic, but the second apron rules have increased the difficulty of maintaining a deep roster. Moving Nnaji with the 26th pick could allow Denver to add a more immediate contributor or reduce long-term financial pressure.
