The Nuggets like the team they have but are in the market for front-court depth. That is one of the final pieces those in the organization believe is necessary to complete a team that, surprisingly, has become an up-and-comer in the Western Conference.
"I think the big man just protects you," Nuggets coach George Karl said. "It's an insurance policy against the teams that play big, and against foul trouble and injuries. If you're going to guarantee me that we're not going to have any of that, then I think we're OK. But I think there's a need for one more body."
The question: What is the market? The short answer: It's early.
The Nuggets need a veteran rebounder and shot blocker who is competent on offense. That player may have
Denver Nuggets to fill in, should, say, Kenyon Martin miss extended time because of his ailing wrist, or if Nene becomes injured. But the Nuggets also are undersized on many nights. The new player should help make the Nuggets versatile in terms of the size, thereby reducing or eliminating defensive mismatches because of Denver's lack of height.
Although a deal can come from nearly anywhere, a couple of frustrated big men appear to be just the type the Nuggets seek.
In New Jersey, Sean Williams, a 6-foot-10, 235-pound shot blocker, sits way down the depth chart on a front-court-heavy Nets team. He recently told the Newark Star-Ledger he won't complain but knows his time with the Nets may be short.
Williams' agent, Charlie Grantham, told the paper a formal trade request is an option. Williams has one year remaining on a contract that is paying him $1.5 million this year. After that comes a team option.
In Philadelphia, Samuel Dalembert wasn't getting much time until the team fired coach Maurice Cheeks. Dalembert has seen more court time, and he would come with a big price tag.
Orlando's Brian Cook is miffed at his lack of a role with the Magic, but he is only 6-8, which doesn't help the Nuggets. He also has clashed with coaches in stints with the Los Angeles Lakers and Magic and is a jump-shooting big man who has a career rebound average of 2.9.
An intriguing, economical option could be former Nugget and fan favorite Dikembe Mutombo, who is out of basketball but wants back in. Mutombo, 42, played for the Houston Rockets last season.
The D-League could provide options, but the Nuggets just sent down 7-footer Cheikh Samb. And the Nuggets aren't the only team in search of more size. The Toronto Raptors also are in the market for a big man.