Overview
- The Nuggets signed six-time All-Star DeMar DeRozan to a one-year veteran-minimum deal after their playoff exit and roster moves that included a sign-and-trade to clear space.
- At Nuggets media day on Sept. 28, Nikola Jokic called DeRozan an “underrated passer” and said DeRozan could both fit into Denver’s system and introduce new ideas.
- DeRozan said playing with Jokic will produce easier scoring chances because Jokic draws defensive attention and creates high-IQ opportunities.
- Coaching staff plans to use DeRozan off the bench as a primary ball-handler for the second unit so he can organize the offense when Jokic or Jamal Murray is off the floor.
- DeRozan arrives as a top-20 all-time scorer who averaged a career-high 6.9 assists last season, giving Denver veteran scoring, playmaking, and locker-room leadership that could change late-game rotations.