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Denver Nuggets 2025-26 projected starting lineup: Nikola Jokic finally has a contender again

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Aaditya Krishnamurthy | Last updated Aug 20, 2025 5:30 PM ET

The Denver Nuggets got to work this offseason, bringing in some strong players to pair with Nikola Jokic.

The Denver Nuggets knew they had to make changes to their roster this offseason. Nikola Jokic proved that he had taken their previous squad as far as he could have.

So the front office got to work. The Nuggets had a brilliant free agency, landing Bruce Brown, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Jonas Valanciunas.

Another big swing they took came in the form of a trade, as the Nuggets made a deal to lan d Cam Johnson for Michael Porter Jr. from the Nets.

And after adding Kessler Edwards to bolster their depth, the Nuggets have a genuine contender on their hands.

2025-26 Denver Nuggets projected starting lineup

The Denver Nuggets will still be anchored by Nikola Jokic next season, as the Serbian sensation looks to win his second NBA championship.

And this will be the roster he can expect to play with come October:

Starting Lineup	Second Unit
Jamal Murray	Jalen Pickett
Christian Braun	Bruce Brown
Cam Johnson	Tim Hardaway Jr.
Aaron Gordon	Julian Strawther
Nikola Jokic	Jonas Valanciunas

Expect Kessler Edwards, Zeke Nnaji, and Hunter Tyson to get big minutes in the rotation as well, as David Adelman tries to rely less on his aging players.

Cam Johnson’s improved shooting will only further cement his place in the starting lineup, as he replaces the outgoing Michael Porter Jr.

Nikola Jokic could win historic 4th MVP award

With a much-improved roster, Nikola Jokic has all the tools in the world to win his fourth MVP award. This Nuggets roster is among the best they have put together.

But for the Serbian star, winning an NBA championship will be far more important. Which is why he will be satisfied with this roster.

The biggest benefit of this roster is that they have backup for Jokic at the center position. Jokic previously praised Valanciunas, and now can rely on him in the same role.

With the OKC Thunder still a strong side in the West, Jokic now finally has the arsenal needed to combat Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and his side and emerge out of the West.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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