The Denver Nuggets began the season hoping to have a long shot to the playoffs. However, their recent spate of injuries took too much of a toll on the team.
With Wilson Chandler and Jusuf Nurkic yet to play in the entire season, it was a deficit too difficult to cover. Even with their gallant stand against the Golden State Warriors, the team would probably fall short of a playoff spot.
Also, teams are starting to hesitate on going for broke on the eighth spot-where a series with Golden State or San Antonio awaits.
Should the Nuggets look toward the future instead? This is a question tackled by team site Denver Stiffs. They floated the possibility of trading Danilo Gallinari, probably their best player.
Teams looking for a "stretch four" would appreciate Gallinari. The Boston Celtics were already rumored to have interest in the Italian gunner during the summer. Gallo would be an upgrade over most of the Celtics forwards and they do have draft picks to dangle.
The Nuggets could also have other suitors for Gallinari like the Indiana Pacers who need to use Paul George at the power forward spot. Gallinari is a bigger player more suited for the position but he can still keep up with faster pace and his shooting will help with the floor spacing.
However, the Pacers may not have the picks to offer Denver if they want to build around their young stars (Mudiay, Barton, Nurkic and Jokic).
Speaking of Barton, Sheridan Hoops took note that the former reserve has risen up the ranks. He was also instrumental in the game against the defending champ Warriors.
There are certain quarters that suggest selling high on Will Barton now. He would be a very valuable asset to a contender and the Nuggets can demand real future assets if they consider trading him.