Report: Nuggets Viewed as Viable Landing Spot for LeBron James in Free Agency
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LeBron James could find a new home in Denver this summer, with several league insiders telling ESPN’s Tim Bontemps and Dave McMenamin that the Nuggets are being discussed as a realistic free-agency destination.
The potential pairing centers on two-time MVP Nikola Jokic. “Who is the only guy on [James’] level from a basketball IQ standpoint in the league? Go there and team up with that guy,” a Western Conference executive told ESPN.
Adding James to a core that already includes Jokic, Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon would give Denver what many observers consider one of the NBA’s smartest and most skilled lineups.
There are workable scenarios. A sign-and-trade with the Los Angeles Lakers is viewed as the most likely mechanism, with names such as Peyton Watson or sharpshooter Cameron Johnson—currently hitting 42.8 percent from three-point range—mentioned as possible outgoing pieces.
Denver’s interest is nothing new. The franchise, led by president Josh Kroenke, pursued James during his 2018 free agency. Personal ties also exist, including assistant coach Jared Dudley, a former Lakers teammate of the four-time MVP.
While the Nuggets are gaining traction in speculation, some executives still see the Lakers as the most natural fit for James to remain. The LA Clippers are considered a long shot despite organizational ties, and the New York Knicks are viewed as a high-upside but higher-risk alternative.
Source: Hoops Wire
