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The Denver Nuggets were one of the many surprises of the 2020 NBA Playoffs, with the young team making it all the way to the Western Conference Finals, even knocking out the LA Clippers in the process. But due to their humiliating loss against the LA Lakers, the franchise has been the subject of many NBA trade rumors that have linked them to countless superstars from around the league. Here are five players who we think the Denver Nuggets should go after this offseason to take the franchise to the next level.
NBA Trade Rumors: 5 players the Denver Nuggets must target this offseason
For this list, we will be keeping a close eye on the players that can solve the team's weaknesses, namely the questionable quality on the defensive end, as well as the team's overall ability to stretch the floor.
#5. Kevin Love
In their crushing loss against the LA Lakers in the conference finals, the Denver Nuggets severely lacked three-point shooting in their frontcourt, as well as a defense that could help slow the Lakers down. The acquisition of Kevin Love would solve these issues immediately.
Love is an excellent defender, fairly switchable, and elite when it comes to on-ball defense. On good teams, the 32-year-old shows great hustle and a willingness to put his body on the line to stop the opposition's offense. Additionally, he is also an excellent outside shooter who is also above average inside the paint. This allows the team to have a resilient inside on both ends.
If the Denver Nuggets bring Kevin Love in, it could bolster the team's ability massively on both ends of the floor.
#4. Montrezl Harrell
The reigning Sixth Man of the Year is a free agent this offseason, and the Denver Nuggets must do whatever they can to bring him on board. NBA trade rumors have been speculating about the Montrezl Harrell's frustrations with the LA Clippers, which is why bringing him on board may be relatively easy for the franchise.
Montrezl Harrell is a player that can contribute on the offensive end. But more importantly for the Denver Nuggets, he is incredibly versatile on the defensive end.
Harrell can guard all five positions and can be a dependable rim protector when called upon to do the job. At the moment, Denver Nuggets' roster lacks players that can make an impact on the defensive end of the floor. If they decide to add a player who can address this shortcoming, they must look no further than Montrezl Harrell.
#3. Jrue Holiday
Jrue Holiday has been one of the best defensive guards in the NBA for a long time now, which is why the Denver Nuggets need to make him one of their highest priorities.
While Jamal Murray is prone to offensive explosions, his defense leaves a lot to be desired. Gary Harris is good but not elite as a defender, which is why the Denver Nuggets backcourt needs some serious reinforcements on the defensive end of the floor.
Bringing in Jrue Holiday would be perfect for the Denver Nuggets, as the 30-year old would improve the team's defense significantly. Moreover, he is also very good on the offensive end and could choose between playing off-ball or being the facilitator.
Given how versatile his skill-set is, it is safe to say that Jrue Holiday would add another dimension to the Denver Nuggets and be the perfect acquisition for the franchise.
#2. Gordon Hayward
While Gordon Hayward isn't an awe-inspiring player on the defensive end, he is still capable of some great defense when played in a good system.
Hayward is a decent defender that would add some serious versatility on the offensive end for the team. He is an elite creator out of the pick-and-roll and is also capable of being an amazing off-ball player.
Considering how much Gordon Hayward would be able to bring to the Denver Nuggets' roster, the franchise should do everything they can to acquire the services of the free agent.
#1. Chris Paul
Chris Paul had an amazing season with the OKC Thunder, wherein he proved to everyone that he is still one of the NBA's best over the course of the regular campaign.
Chris Paul could be the perfect addition for the Denver Nuggets on both ends of the floor. In addition to being an elite offensive weapon, Paul is also a very impactful player on the defensive end.
The OKC Thunder star is also a great leader who is capable of guiding the team through the toughest of times. Additionally, he steps up his already impressive game in the postseason when the stakes are high.
The 35-year-old is reportedly seeking a trade to a contender for the NBA Championship, and the Denver Nuggets would be wise to go after Chris Paul this offseason.
Guess the Lakers players!
