EXCLUSIVE: How +14.3 Rating Beast Luke Kornet Could Transform Nuggets Into UNSTOPPABLE Force!
The Denver Nuggets have identified a potential solution to their depth concerns through former Boston Celtics center Luke Kornet, according to ESPN's Bobby Marks, who believes the 7-footer could provide crucial frontcourt support at an affordable price.
Nuggets superstar Nikola Jokić has been vocal about the team's need for additional depth following their second-round playoff exit. The three-time MVP specifically cited successful teams' ability to utilize longer rotations, mentioning Indiana, Oklahoma City, and Minnesota as examples of franchises with superior bench depth.
"We definitely need to figure out a way to get more depth," Jokić stated after Denver's playoff elimination. "It seems like the teams that have longer rotations, the longer benches, are the ones who are winning."
Marks suggests the Nuggets target Kornet using their taxpayer mid-level exception, proposing a two-year, $11.7 million contract. The 29-year-old center averaged 6.0 points and 5.3 rebounds in 18 minutes per game during Boston's championship-winning 2024-25 season.
The advanced metrics strongly support Kornet's impact, with the Celtics posting a remarkable plus-14.3 points per 100 possessions when he was on the court. This efficiency rating demonstrates his ability to contribute meaningfully despite limited minutes, exactly what Denver needs from a backup center.
As a first-apron team, the Nuggets face significant roster construction challenges. They cannot take back more salary in trades and would risk losing starter Michael Porter Jr. if they pursue major upgrades through the trade market. This financial reality makes affordable free agent additions like Kornet particularly attractive.
Kornet's skill set aligns well with Denver's system. At 7'2", he provides rim protection and rebounding while possessing enough mobility to complement Jokić in certain lineups. His three-point shooting ability (career 34.6% from beyond the arc) adds floor spacing that could benefit the Nuggets' offensive flow.
The signing would address Denver's most glaring weakness - frontcourt depth behind Jokić. The Nuggets struggled when their franchise player rested, and Kornet's proven ability to contribute in championship-level situations makes him an ideal target for their taxpayer mid-level exception.