The Denver Nuggets decided they won’t be keeping the status quo ahead of the 2022-23 NBA season. Instead, the franchise made a big swing by trading starters Monte Morris and Will Barton to the Washington Wizards in exchange for veterans Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Ish Smith.
According to reports, no draft assets were included in the deal, making it a player swap.
The Nuggets’ decision to part ways with Morris and Barton might seem odd, especially considering that both players started 70+ games last season. Morris finished the 2021-22 campaign with career averages in points (12.6), rebounds (3.0), and assists (4.4). Barton averaged 14.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game.
However, some might say that their prominence resulted from injuries Denver battled. The franchise expects its true starters to be ready for next season and can argue that Caldwell-Pope’s defense and three-point shooting is a better fit for their roster. Also, it came down to finances as the team is bracing itself for the effects of the supermax deal they gave to back-to-back MVP Nikola Jokic.
On the other hand, it is clear to see why the Wizards took this deal. It addresses a position of need, with Morris projected to be the team’s starting point guard once the season starts. Barton is a great depth addition who could also serve as a trade piece down the line.
