Denver's offseason centered on resolving Peyton Watson's restricted free agency via a sign-and-trade to Cleveland, ending a summer saga. The Nuggets, coming off a 54-win season and first-round exit to Minnesota, made minimal moves—adding Marvin Bagley III and Lonnie Walker IV while losing Watson, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Jonas Valanciunas. Denver remains the only team above the salary cap's second apron.

Analysts graded the Watson deal poorly; Zach Kram gave a "D," noting Denver loses a rare draft success story. However, the unprotected Cavaliers pick acquired could facilitate future trades. Ben Golliver observed the franchise is clinging to the status quo, hoping attrition among Western Conference rivals—Oklahoma City, Minnesota, Los Angeles—opens the window for Nikola Jokic.

The looming question is Jokic's future; he hasn't signed a four-year, $278 million extension with one year of team control left. Until he commits, every move faces scrutiny. Cameron Johnson emerges as the biggest X factor after a strong finish (eighth in 3-point percentage). ESPN's BPI ranks Denver seventh, while power rankings place them 18th. Eric Moody favors the over on 49.5 wins, citing Jokic's health and offensive continuity.