Jeremy Sochan Chooses Knicks Over Nuggets, Leaving Denver Still Searching for Defensive Help
Well, that didn’t take long. Jeremy Sochan hit the open market and just as quickly found a new home - but it won’t be in Denver. The former Spurs forward has agreed to a deal with the New York Knicks, per multiple reports, ending what was a brief but intriguing flirtation with several teams, including the Nuggets.
Sochan reportedly drew interest from at least 10 teams, and it’s not hard to see why. He’s a versatile, above-average defender with size, energy, and the kind of upside that front offices love to gamble on - especially when it costs nothing but a roster spot and a little cap maneuvering. For a Denver squad that’s been looking to plug some defensive leaks, Sochan could’ve been a timely addition.
But instead of heading to the Mile High City, Sochan is heading to Manhattan. And that leaves the Nuggets still holding two open roster spots - and a growing sense of urgency.
Spencer Jones Contract Talks Continue
One of those two spots is earmarked, at least unofficially, for Spencer Jones. The rookie forward has been on a two-way deal but has played well enough to warrant a standard contract.
The process of converting that deal, though, is taking longer than expected. Negotiations between the Nuggets and Jones’ camp are ongoing, with both sides working toward a deal that makes sense for everyone involved.
The hope is to get something done around or shortly after All-Star weekend. In the meantime, Jones has been making the most of his time off - reportedly updating his LinkedIn profile and spending time in Los Angeles with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.
It’s a full-circle moment for a player who went undrafted and has now started 36 games for a defending champion. His story is resonating across the league, and the Nuggets clearly value what he brings.
Where Do the Nuggets Turn Now?
Sochan’s decision to join the Knicks may have given us a peek into Denver’s priorities. The Nuggets were interested in him for a reason - he defends.
That’s been one of the team’s biggest shortcomings this season, and it’s not exactly a secret. Whether it’s guarding the perimeter, closing out on shooters, or just bringing more grit to the rotation, Denver knows it needs help on that end of the floor.
And while Sochan’s off the table, the buyout market could still offer some solutions. The problem?
We don’t yet know who’s going to be available. The Nuggets, like everyone else, are monitoring the wires, waiting to see which veterans shake loose after the trade deadline dust settles.
One thing is clear: they’re looking for players who can impact the game defensively. That’s where the need is most urgent.
Of course, as assistant coach David Adelman has hinted in the past, even just getting a healthy, reliable body into the mix would help. Between injuries and inconsistency, the Nuggets have been stretched thin.
The Championship Window Is Still Open - But Narrowing
This is still a team with title aspirations. The core remains elite, and when healthy, Denver can hang with anyone.
But the margin for error is getting thinner. A few more defensive stops here and there, a better rotation or two, and this team could be sitting a few wins higher - maybe even in that sweet spot Phil Jackson used to call the “championship window” at 40-15.
Instead, they’re facing a tougher climb. Not insurmountable, but steeper than it needed to be.
So now, it’s back to the drawing board. Back to the phones.
Back to the watchful eye on Shams’ X feed. The Nuggets still have time to make a move, but if they want to repeat as champions, they’ll need to find the right piece - someone who can help them get just a few more stops when it matters most.