DeMar DeRozan Joins Denver Nuggets: Can He Fit in with Nikola Jokić's Style?
DeMar DeRozan is set to begin his 18th NBA season with the Denver Nuggets, having agreed to a one-year, minimum deal. This move comes after the Nuggets traded restricted free agent Peyton Watson to the Cleveland Cavaliers in a sign-and-trade, leaving a gap at forward that DeRozan aims to fill alongside Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray. At 37 years old, DeRozan previously played for the Sacramento Kings, where he averaged 20.3 points, 4.3 assists, and 3.4 rebounds per game with shooting splits of 48.6% from the field, 32.5% from three, and 86.2% from the free-throw line. Following his release, he became a free agent and is now looking to contribute to a Nuggets team that experienced a first-round playoff exit last season. While DeRozan adds a valuable scoring option and on-ball creator, his fit within the Nuggets' system raises questions. DeRozan's 3-point shooting has been a consistent weakness, contrasting with Denver's offensive strategy that relies on perimeter spacing for the Jokić-Murray duo. Last season, Watson shot 41.1% from beyond the arc, whereas DeRozan managed only 32.5%. The Nuggets' offensive structure heavily revolves around Jokić's playmaking, and while DeRozan has adapted to off-ball roles in the past, he still created over 61% of his 2-point baskets himself. In contrast, Watson was assisted on 65.2% of his 2-point baskets. Optimistically, DeRozan could enhance the Nuggets' bench unit, which has struggled historically during Jokić's tenure. His shot-making ability may not align perfectly with Jokić's style, but when Jokić is off the floor, DeRozan's value increases significantly. How David Adelman integrates DeRozan into the rotation and how well he adjusts to playing with Jokić will be crucial for Denver's success in the upcoming season. Concerns linger among fans regarding the franchise's commitment to maximizing Jokić's prime years, especially following the Watson trade.
Source: CBS Sports - 2026-08-21