NBA Draft 2018: 5 targets for the Denver Nuggets

Williams seemed like a player the Nuggets would have targeted in the 2017 draft, but the Aggies forward decided to return to school. Texas A&M had a tough year during Williams’ sophomore season, struggling to figure out how to use Williams best. The shot-blocking big man wound up playing small forward at times — a far cry from what his role would be in the NBA.

This pick makes sense for the Nuggets if they approach the draft thinking, “The most important thing is to find a frontcourt player that can thrive next to Nikola Jokic.” At this point in his career, it’s not like Paul Millsap is going to be around forever. The Nuggets fell apart when the veteran All-Star had to miss games with a wrist injury. Adding a defensive prospect like Williams gives them a raw talent they can groom behind Millsap, a player that can take over once the four-time All Star’s contract expires in Denver.

Williams role in the NBA will be vastly different than it was at Texas A&M. The Nuggets system rewards big men that can finish over defenders (read – dunk, violently) and know how to play the short corner. Williams has the above the rim athleticism to be successful on offense, and has the size and physicality to be a solid screen-setter if he moves away from the basket. He gives the Nuggets an actual lob threat that would play, while Faried continues to ride the pine.

This is a pick that would signify the Nuggets are on the verge of making changes. Williams wouldn’t be contributing for a couple years, and they need to make the playoffs to help keep Tim Connelly’s or Michael Malone’s seat from starting to get toasty.