The Denver Nuggets' unceremonious exit from the 2026 playoffs has left the franchise and its fanbase questioning the next steps to reclaim championship glory. With eight different champions in the last eight seasons, the NBA is experiencing a unique era of parity. The Nuggets boast arguably the best player in the league, Nikola Jokic, who will turn 32 this season, making it crucial for the team to capitalize on this window of opportunity. In previous parts of this series, we explored potential coaching and roster changes, but there's a third option: run it back. This approach, while less appealing, may be the most viable path forward. The 2026 playoff run was a disappointment, and simply stating that the same group can perform better next season may not inspire confidence among fans. However, continuity can lead to success, and the Nuggets have the potential to win a title with their current roster. The challenge lies in the financial implications of retaining key players without incurring penalties from the luxury tax. The Nuggets have ten players under contract or with team options for the upcoming season, including their starting five and key bench players. Additionally, they have control over restricted free agents Peyton Watson and Spencer Jones, allowing them to match any offers. However, they face the risk of losing unrestricted free agents Tim Hardaway Jr., Bruce Brown, and Tyus Jones, who can sign with any team. The salary cap situation is critical, as the Nuggets have avoided the luxury tax's second apron since its introduction in 2024. Former GM Calvin Booth aimed to build a strong bench with affordable rookie contracts, but that strategy fell short. As the Nuggets navigate tough decisions to remain under the anticipated $222 million second tax apron, they must carefully consider their options to improve their roster for the next season.