The Denver Nuggets’ championship window is still open, but they're somewhat handcuffed from making further roster moves.

Denver possesses limited draft capital and a crowded salary sheet.

Even so, Bleacher Report’s Andy Bailey suggested that Denver has a good chance to land New Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy III.

Bailey proposed a Nuggets package of Michael Porter Jr., Peyton Watson, a 2031 first-round pick swap, and a 2032 first-round pick, with Kelly Olynyk included from New Orleans to balance salaries.

“MPJ had a down (and injury-plagued) postseason, but he averaged 18.2 points and shot 39.5 percent from three in the regular season,” Bailey wrote. “His contract ends two years earlier than Murphy’s, which has value for a team that could be eyeing a full-scale teardown and rebuild.”

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For Denver, Murphy’s two-way upside and Olynyk’s veteran savvy could bolster their second unit, which has struggled since the team's 2023 title. Murphy’s 39.7% three-point shooting and defensive versatility would add depth to Denver’s wing rotation, while Olynyk’s passing and shooting could stabilize the backup center role.

New Orleans, meanwhile, would gain flexibility with Porter’s shorter contract, a chance to develop 22-year-old defensive standout Peyton Watson, and distant draft picks to fuel a potential rebuild. Porter’s scoring and shooting could keep the Pelicans interesting in the short term, though his injury history is a concern.

From Denver’s perspective, this trade would be a calculated risk. Murphy’s youth and two-way potential make him a better long-term fit than Porter, whose postseason struggles and health issues raise questions. Olynyk’s addition addresses a clear need, but parting with Watson—a promising defender—and future draft assets could limit Denver’s flexibility down the road.

For New Orleans, the deal hinges on their timeline. If they’re leaning toward a rebuild, Porter’s expiring contract and Watson’s upside are appealing. The draft picks, though far in the future, add value. However, losing Murphy—a rising star—could be a losing decision in the long run.

This trade idea from Bailey is a long shot given Denver’s cap constraints and New Orleans’ high asking price for Murphy. Still, it’s a creative proposal that could help the Nuggets retool around Nikola Jokić while giving the Pelicans pieces to pivot toward a new era.

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