Nuggets Land Marvin Bagley III in Free Agency Surprise

The Denver Nuggets have officially signed Marvin Bagley III to a one-year veteran minimum contract for the 2026-27 season. This marks the team's initial move in free agency, bringing in the former No. 2 overall pick to bolster their frontcourt.

Bagley split time between the Wizards and Mavericks last season, averaging 10.5 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.4 assists. He demonstrated offensive capability, shooting a career-high 61.8% from the field and 46.2% from three. Primarily playing center in the 2025-26 campaign, he could also see time at power forward alongside Nikola Jokic.

This signing significantly impacts Jonas Valanciunas, who was Denver's primary backup center. Valanciunas has an expiring, non-fully guaranteed $10 million contract, offering the Nuggets a potential $8 million savings if released. This flexibility is crucial for re-signing key players like Peyton Watson and Spencer Jones.

The Nuggets now have 11 players on traditional contracts for the upcoming season, leaving four open roster spots. The addition of Bagley may also lead to trade considerations for Zeke Nnaji, though finding a taker for his contract remains a challenge.