Denver’s Summer League campaign opened with familiar and new faces trying to carve out roles while the club’s cornerstone awaits a future contract.
Holmes helps behind the scenes
Forward DaRon Holmes II, selected in the first round of the 2024 draft, has not been placed on the Nuggets’ Las Vegas roster two years after tearing his Achilles tendon during his Summer League debut. Instead, the 22-year-old worked as a practice player ahead of the tournament.
“Everybody’s playing hard, trying to earn something,” Holmes said. “That’s what I need to be around because I’m trying to earn my time on the court.”
Holmes appeared in 25 games during the 2025-26 season, logging 3.7 points and 1.4 rebounds across 8.4 minutes per outing. He added that the major injury pushed him to expand his game beyond athleticism.
Simpson targets another Vegas run
Two-way guard KJ Simpson helped Charlotte capture the 2025 Summer League title and hopes to repeat the feat with Denver. The 23-year-old former Colorado standout registered 17 points, nine assists, one steal and one block in Friday’s loss to Houston, shooting 4-for-13 with four turnovers in 30 minutes.
“If I can go out there and showcase what I can do, that’s a win for me and for the Nuggets,” Simpson said.
Hopkins impresses in debut
Second-round pick Bryce Hopkins delivered 24 points on 9-of-13 shooting, four rebounds, three steals and two blocks against Houston. The former St. John’s forward, who has yet to sign his first NBA contract, played 26 minutes in the opener.
Front office on Jokic’s contract timing
During Friday’s ESPN broadcast, executive vice president of player personnel Jon Wallace addressed Nikola Jokic’s decision to wait until next summer before negotiating a new deal. “We feel confident,” Wallace said. “We trust him. We’ve got no choice but to.” Jokic has repeatedly indicated he intends to spend his entire career in Denver.
Source: Hoops Rumors
