3 Denver Nuggets players who definitely won’t be back next season

Apr 6, 2023; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Reggie Jackson (7) celebrates with center DeAndre Jordan (6) against the Phoenix Suns in the first half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 6, 2023; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Reggie Jackson (7) celebrates with center DeAndre Jordan (6) against the Phoenix Suns in the first half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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May 20, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Denver Nuggets center DeAndre Jordan (6) warms up before game three against the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference Finals for the 2023 NBA playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
May 20, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Denver Nuggets center DeAndre Jordan (6) warms up before game three against the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference Finals for the 2023 NBA playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports /

Denver Nuggets who won’t be back next season: 1. Deandre Jordan

DeAndre Jordan played his role to perfection this season — a break-in-case-of-emergency backup big man whose most important contributions would come in the locker room, in experience and mentorship.

Jordan played in just 39 games for 586 total minutes, career lows. But his presence was repeatedly praised throughout the season, including by his head coach Mike Malone:

"“The impact he’s had on our team has been tangible. It’s real. His positivity, his leadership. It’s never been about DeAndre, and that’s not always the case for a 15-year vet. He could easily have said, ‘Man, I’m out of the rotation, screw these guys.’ He’s bought in. I’m just really thankful that he’s here because he’s been very impactful for me as a head coach to have a guy like that.”"

Jordan will have earned his ring but with and expiring contract and a roster suddenly full of championship experience they might look for a backup big with more on-court upside.

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