Denver Nuggets Land LeBron James' Former Lakers Teammate
The Denver Nuggets have made a significant move in the offseason, signing Lonnie Walker IV, a former Los Angeles Lakers teammate of LeBron James, to a one-year, $3.3 million deal. This signing comes as a response to teams across the East and West strengthening their rosters to push for an NBA championship.
What Happened?
Lonnie Walker IV, who left the NBA in 2025 after a stint with the Philadelphia 76ers, has agreed to a one-year, $3.3 million deal with the Denver Nuggets. Walker was with Maccabi Tel Aviv in the EuroLeague after last playing in the NBA in 2024-25 and now enters his 8th season in the league. Prior to signing with the 76ers, Walker had been playing for Lithuanian side Zalgiris Kaunas in the EuroLeague.
Why It Matters for Denver Nuggets
The Nuggets struggled to get the right type of production from players outside of Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray, so adding another scoring option only strengthens their roster. Walker has a wealth of experience in the NBA, getting drafted 18th overall in the 2018 Draft by the San Antonio Spurs. After four years with the Spurs during their rebuild, Walker would sign with the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2022-23 NBA season.
What Comes Next?
Walker provided valuable minutes off the bench in the 2023 playoffs, averaging 6.2 points, 0.9 rebounds, and 0.8 assists while shooting 48.3% from the field and 38.2% from beyond the arc. His shooting from deep allowed the Lakers to reach the Western Conference Finals for the first time since their 2020 championship run. The Nuggets feel that Walker can provide solid production as a scorer for them this season, especially coming off the bench.
Recent Form
The Denver Nuggets have struggled in their recent form, losing their last two games. Their last result was a 110-98 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on May 1, 2026. They have a recent form record of 2 wins and 0 draws, but 3 losses, with their last two games being losses.
The Nuggets' signing of Lonnie Walker IV is a significant move in the offseason, and it will be interesting to see how he fits into their roster. With Walker's experience and scoring ability, he could be a valuable addition to the team. However, one of the big concerns with Walker will be his defense, as he isn't a particularly good perimeter defender, and can get caught napping during key moments. If he plays a limited set of minutes and is trusted to provide a strong attacking option, the Nuggets will be happy with the production he brings them.
