The Denver Nuggets have made their first major offseason move, agreeing to a one-year, $3.9 million deal with six-time All-Star DeMar DeRozan. This signing comes as the team rides a five-game winning streak, including a 128-118 victory over the San Antonio Spurs on April 13, 2026. ESPN NBA insider Tim McMahon, however, has sharply criticized the potential on-court fit, particularly alongside star center Nikola Jokic.
What are the concerns about the DeRozan signing?
McMahon voiced his doubts on the Hoop Collective podcast. He acknowledged the Nuggets' need for scoring, especially off the bench. DeRozan averaged over 18 points per game last season with the Sacramento Kings. McMahon thinks a bench role could suit the veteran guard at this stage of his career.
But the analyst sees major problems. "Can we discuss the potential fit of DeRozan with the Nuggets because I think it's, honestly, pretty clunky," McMahon said. His primary worry is how DeRozan's ball-dominant style meshes with Jokic's playmaking. DeRozan isn't known as a floor-spacer or a cutter, traits that typically thrive next to Jokic.
What is the biggest issue with DeRozan and Jokic together?
The criticism goes beyond offensive fit. McMahon saved his harshest words for the potential defensive pairing. He argued that playing DeRozan and Jokic together would create a significant liability on that end of the floor.
"I get it, they need scoring," McMahon said. "But I don't think you can play DeRozan with Joker because DeRozan needs the ball." This stark assessment highlights the perceived risk in putting two players with defensive limitations in key lineup combinations.
How did the Nuggets create roster flexibility?
Denver's offseason had been quiet due to several expensive contracts, like those for Cam Johnson and Christian Braun. Moving those deals proved difficult, limiting their options. The situation changed recently when the team couldn't re-sign two-way talent Peyton Watson.
They pivoted to a multi-team sign-and-trade involving Watson. That maneuver netted the Nuggets a couple of future draft picks. It provided just enough flexibility to enter the market for a veteran scorer, which led directly to the DeRozan agreement. You can track the evolving roster on our [squad](/squad) page.
What is the context for this move?
The Nuggets are in a strong competitive position. Their recent form shows five wins and zero losses in their last five games. Adding a proven scorer like DeRozan is clearly an attempt to bolster their bench unit for a deep playoff run. The front office is betting his offensive creation can prop up the offense during the approximately 14 minutes per game Jokic rests.
Not everyone around the league shares McMahon's negative view. Some feel adding a player of DeRozan's caliber for the veteran minimum is a smart, low-risk move. The debate centers on whether his scoring punch outweighs the defensive and fit questions. The answer will play out on the court next season as Denver looks to build on its current momentum.
