The Denver Nuggets will officially start their journey toward the 2026-27 NBA season this weekend, tipping off their preseason schedule at the University of Colorado Boulder campus. This marks the team's first on-court action since finishing last season on a high note, including a dominant 116-93 victory over the Golden State Warriors on March 30, 2026. Head coach Michael Malone will use these exhibition games to evaluate rotations and integrate new faces into the system.
The Nuggets open their preseason slate with a game at the CU Events Center in Boulder. While the specific opponent and tip-off time from the original source are not detailed, these exhibition contests are critical for shaking off summer rust. Playing at a familiar Colorado venue offers a home-court feel for fans before the regular season grind begins. It's a chance for the roster to build chemistry and for the coaching staff to experiment with different lineup combinations under game conditions.
Denver enters the preseason with positive momentum from their previous campaign. Their last five official games resulted in a strong 4-1 record, featuring a three-game winning streak to close things out. That run included the commanding 116-93 win against the Warriors and a thrilling 125-123 road victory over the Phoenix Suns on March 25, 2026. Earlier in March, they also posted a blowout 129-93 win over the Houston Rockets. You can review the team's full recent results and upcoming schedule on our [fixtures](/fixtures) page.
All eyes will be on the team's core of Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, and Michael Porter Jr. To see how they look after the offseason. Preseason is vital for assessing player fitness and monitoring any lingering injuries. It also provides a first look at rookies or recent signings competing for the final roster spots. Coach Malone will be focused on defensive schemes and offensive flow, emphasizing the pick-and-roll execution that makes the team so dangerous. These games don't count in the standings, but they set the tone for the entire year.
Based on their late-season form, expectations in Denver remain sky-high. The Nuggets have established themselves as perennial contenders, and the preseason is the first step in another championship pursuit. The performance of role players and the development of the bench will be areas to watch closely during these exhibition matches. Success will be measured by health, cohesion, and the implementation of Malone's game plan. The real test comes when the regular season begins, but a solid preseason foundation is essential.
