The Denver Nuggets have reached the playoffs in each of the past seven seasons, but it’s been two years since they were able to hoist the Larry O’Brien trophy after winning the NBA Finals. In other words, the Nuggets know they have work to do after being eliminated in the Western Conference Semifinals.
Nikola Jokic obviously isn’t going anywhere, but the Nuggets are still formulating their supporting cast around the three-time NBA MVP. That includes the pursuit of a former No. 1 overall pick.
According to ESPN’s NBA insider Shams Charania, the Nuggets were one of six teams that pursued a contract with Deandre Ayton before he signed a two-year contract worth $16.6 million.
“I’m told the New York Knicks, Los Angeles Clippers, Milwaukee Bucks, Indiana Pacers, Cleveland Cavaliers and Denver Nuggets all had interest in Ayton before his decision to sign with the Lakers.”
ESPN’s Shams Charania on Deandre Ayton
The Lakers managed to get their new starting center signed to a respectable contract. It’s hard to imagine that other teams didn’t make better offers. Yet, perhaps Ayton was especially interested in playing in LA alongside players such as LeBron James and Luka Doncic.
While Ayton hasn’t quite lived up to the status of some of the top No. 1 picks, he’s at least consistent. The 25-year-old is the only player in NBA history to average 15 or more points per game while shooting 60% or better from the floor in the postseason.
Ultimately, the Lakers are getting a battle-tested playoff performer who you can always count on for 10 or more rebounds per game. No wonder so many teams were interested.
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