The Denver Nuggets aren't too far removed from winning their first-ever NBA title, but it feels like so long ago. Denver has been trying to recreate their dominant stretch but nothing has come close.
The Nuggets are still a force within the Western Conference but they feel more vulnerable than ever. Currently, Denver holds a record of 14-11, and sits in sixth place within the conference.
Denver has had issues scoring the ball at times and has been gauging the league for additional help. One name that has popped up around league circles recently is Chicago Bulls star guard Zach LaVine.
Chicago has been trying to trade LaVine for some time now but his recent strong performance on the court seems to have helped things.
Additionally, Tony Jones and Sam Amick of The Athletic have reported that the Nuggets' interest in LaVine is significant.
"League sources say the focus on LaVine in recent discussions is significant, with the Nuggets interested in the 29-year-old."
If Denver were to trade for LaVine, it would surely improve their offensive attack. The Nuggets would need to part with some key pieces but landing a player like LaVine could be worth it.
Here is what a possible trade deal could look like:
Nuggets receive: Guard Zach LaVine
Bulls receive: Forward Michael Porter Jr., Vlatko Čančar, Dario Saric, and a 2028 first-round draft pick swap
LaVine would step in and instantly give the Nuggets an energy scorer in the starting lineup. Putting him alongside Nikola Jokic, Aaron Gordon, and Jamal Murray could allow the Nuggets to get firmly back into title contention.
On the year, the two-time All-Star has averaged 22.3 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. LaVine is also shooting 43.5 percent from beyond the 3-point line, currently a career-high for himself.
Losing Porter Jr. would be tough, but Denver may have to make some sacrifices. The defense could take a slight hit without the size of Porter Jr. but the Nuggets have already looked to trade him previously.
Denver reportedly discussed a trade, for now-Phialdelphia 76ers star Paul George before he entered free agency over the summer. Porter Jr. would have been the main piece in the deal so the Nuggets may considered a roster without him on it.
The West has only gotten stronger since the Nuggets won the NBA title in 2023 so this move could help them keep the pace. The Oklahoma City Thunder, Memphis Grizzlies, Dallas Mavericks, and more all are legitimate threats.
This trade would be a potential gamble for the Nuggets but one that could possibly work out well. Denver has done well with bringing players into their system to thrive and if they could pull off a deal for LaVine, he could be next in line.
For more Nuggets and NBA news, make sure to head over to Newsweek Sports.
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