Who will Denver pick as power forward of future?
Grant, Millsap could both be free agents this coming offseason
With Paul Millsap and Jerami Grant most likely to become free agents this offseason, What do you think is the most likely future for the Nuggets at power forward? — Greger, Colorado Springs
This is one of the fascinating undercurrents of the second half of the season. Both players can be free agents this summer. Millsap is turning 35 in February, and Grant has found a rhythm in the starting lineup.
Do the Nuggets trust Grant to be their power forward of the future, as was suggested at his introductory news conference? He’s undersized for that position but adds several components that Millsap can’t bring, like agility and shot blocking.
My guess is Grant will decline his player option and the Nuggets will do their best to re-sign him.
As for Millsap, I think it’s ultimately going to come down to money. I think the organization recognizes his value. Would he be willing to come back at a lower number for a chance at a title? Would he be willing to come off the bench?
Michael Porter Jr. sat out a game the other night with a stiff back. Is this normal wear and tear due to a long season? Or should we be concerned because of his history of two back operations?
— Gregory Weiss, Denver
Singer: Porter said that he tweaked something while lifting prior to the Houston game, and his back just didn’t feel right. The fact that he played the next game in New Orleans suggests that it was minor.
Q: How much will the Nuggets’ recent rash of injuries factor into how they approach the trade deadline?
— Matt, East Colfax
Singer: When they were bloated with healthy talent, the answer was easy: trade the assets that weren’t being used. Now that injuries have hit, I think it’s less likely they make a major move. In my definition, major constitutes moving Malik Beasley.
Gary Harris was having a rocky season before the adductor strain sidelined him for a few games. From a bigger picture, his body has been through the wringer the last season and a half. Beasley, his backup, is a lightning scorer and a tremendous athlete who can infuse energy into a game. Not to mention, keeping him past the deadline means they’ll have a chance to keep him in restricted free agency this summer.
The Nuggets should consider the rise of Michael Porter Jr. their major deadline acquisition. He’s likely more talented than anyone else who gets traded.
I think it’s pretty clear the Nuggets’ best five is their starting lineup. But what say you, Mike? Who does Michael Malone go with in crunch time once the playoffs come around?
— Chris, Centennial
Singer: When healthy, their starting five is excellent. The two variables within that group, in my opinion, are Harris and Millsap. And I think Malone could flex those two depending on matchups. If they need someone to pester Paul George or Kawhi Leonard in crunch time, Jerami Grant will be on the floor. If they’re lacking outside scoring, I could see Porter being the option.