The Denver Nuggets have finalized their lineup for the 2025–26 season, and the structure of the roster makes one thing clear: this is still Nikola Jokic’s team, with Jamal Murray serving as his running mate and Christian Braun, Cam Johnson, and Aaron Gordon filling the gaps that make Denver a well-rounded unit. After years of contending, the Nuggets are once again putting their trust in a blend of proven stars, trusted veterans, and rising prospects to keep them in the mix in a loaded Western Conference.
The Projected Starting Five
The identity of Denver’s starting group remains anchored by the two names that have defined the franchise’s modern era. Jamal Murray will continue to operate as the lead guard, orchestrating the offense, creating in the pick-and-roll, and setting the tone as a clutch shot-maker. Alongside him, Christian Braun takes on the full responsibilities of a starting shooting guard, offering defensive toughness, hustle, and an improved outside shot that allows him to complement Murray’s scoring and Jokic’s playmaking.
On the wing, Cam Johnson brings stability and spacing. Known for his smooth perimeter shooting, Johnson stretches defenses and opens the floor for Jokic’s inside-out passing game. Aaron Gordon will retain his role as the Swiss-army forward, capable of guarding multiple positions, attacking in transition, and serving as the athletic glue that balances the lineup.
And then, of course, everything revolves around Nikola Jokic. The two-time MVP remains the centerpiece, not only as Denver’s leading scorer but also as the hub through which the entire offense flows. His ability to dictate pace, create shots for teammates, and dominate the glass ensures the Nuggets enter another campaign with a top-tier engine powering them forward.
Depth and Experience on the Bench
The Nuggets have built their second unit to be both reliable and flexible. Jalen Pickett is positioned to handle backcourt minutes, with Tim Hardaway Jr. providing immediate scoring off the bench as a veteran shooter. Bruce Brown’s return to Denver strengthens this rotation immensely. Having been a critical piece in their 2023 championship run, Brown’s defensive versatility, rebounding, and ability to slide into multiple positions gives the Nuggets a trusted weapon who already knows the system inside and out.
Peyton Watson enters the season with momentum as a developing young wing, ready to absorb a larger role. In the frontcourt, Jonas Valanciunas brings size, experience, and rebounding to stabilize bench minutes. Alongside him, the Nuggets can lean on Julian Strawther’s shooting, Zeke Nnaji’s interior activity, Hunter Tyson’s all-around effort, and rookie Daron Holmes II, who will begin his NBA journey surrounded by veterans capable of guiding his early growth.
Two-Way Contracts for Development and Depth
The Nuggets have also made sure to cover themselves with a group of two-way players who provide optionality for the long season ahead. Moses Brown gives Denver another seven-footer who can step in when needed. Tamar Bate offers backcourt playmaking, while Curtis Jones and Spencer Jones bring perimeter skills that could earn them minutes in spot situations. These contracts create a pipeline between the Nuggets and their G League affiliate, ensuring Denver has extra reinforcements to call upon when necessary.
Exhibit 10 Opportunity
Kessler Edwards joins Denver on an Exhibit 10 deal, a low-risk move that allows him to participate in training camp with the possibility of earning a permanent roster spot. Edwards’ energy and defensive ability could make him a valuable depth option if he impresses during preseason.
Final Thoughts
The 2025–26 Denver Nuggets are not a team reinventing themselves, but rather one doubling down on the formula that has already brought success. Jokic and Murray remain the heart of the operation, surrounded by complementary starters who balance shooting, defense, and athleticism. The bench is a calculated mix of players who can contribute immediately and others who represent longer-term development.
By bringing back Bruce Brown, adding the veteran presence of Jonas Valanciunas, and supplementing the roster with young talent and developmental contracts, Denver has crafted a roster that blends continuity with flexibility. As the season begins, the Nuggets stand prepared to make another run in the Western Conference, with the belief that the Jokic-Murray partnership, now bolstered by a deeper supporting cast, can once again carry them to contention.
