The NBA is buzzing with expansion talk, and the board of governors might cast their first votes on this exciting development as early as next week. The league is considering adding two new teams, one in Seattle and another in Las Vegas, expanding from 30 to 32 teams. This move would trigger an expansion draft, offering teams like the Denver Nuggets a unique opportunity that doesn't come around often.
Looking back at 2004, when the Charlotte Bobcats joined the league, teams were allowed to protect up to eight players under contract or as restricted free agents for the upcoming season. Unrestricted free agents were off-limits since they weren't under team control. While the rules might see some tweaks this time around, the basic framework could remain similar, especially with two new teams entering the mix.
Here's where it gets interesting: teams can strategically use this draft to offload hefty contracts or players who might not fit their chemistry. The rules don't mandate keeping your top earners, just eight players of your choosing. This flexibility can be a game-changer for teams looking to manage their salary cap effectively.
For the Nuggets, the timing could be perfect. As of now, only Jamal Murray and Christian Braun are locked in for the 2028-29 season, with Aaron Gordon holding a player option worth $39 million. Murray's contract stands at $57 million, while Braun's is $25 million.
Braun's contract, in particular, could become a talking point. He's set to earn $26 million and $28 million in the subsequent years, a significant increase from his current $4.91 million deal. Although Braun has recently upped his game, averaging 18 points on 59% shooting over his last five outings, his overall season performance of 11.6 points has left some fans concerned about his upcoming salary.
This potential expansion draft offers the Nuggets a rare chance to reevaluate their roster and make strategic decisions about contracts and player dynamics. It's not every day that such an opportunity presents itself, and it could be pivotal for shaping the team's future.