The Denver Nuggets have faced depth issues all season, struggling with injuries and constant lineup changes. This instability has made it difficult to build chemistry and establish a solid rotation. Even when fully healthy, the team lacks depth, forcing their star players to carry a heavy workload. Any absence in the rotation leads to a noticeable drop-off, and as the playoffs approach, questions remain about who will play consistent minutes off the bench.
One unexpected bright spot, however, has been Zeke Nnaji. After spending nearly a year out of Denver’s rotation, he was called upon due to injuries—and has exceeded all expectations.
Zeke Nnaji Steps Up as Denver’s Much-Needed Backup Big Man
Before last season, Nuggets GM Calvin Booth made the surprising decision to offer Nnaji a four-year, $32 million extension, even though he still had a year left on his contract. At the time, the move seemed questionable. By the end of the season, Nnaji had fallen out of Denver’s rotation completely, and heading into this year, the Nuggets actively looked to trade him. However, his $8.8 million salary with three guaranteed years left made that impossible.
Then, in an unexpected turn of events, injuries forced Denver to give Nnaji another chance. Aaron Gordon, Russell Westbrook, and Peyton Watson all missed significant time, while Dario Saric struggled to contribute. With few options left, head coach Michael Malone turned back to Nnaji—and the young big man delivered.
Perhaps time away helped him reset and refocus, because Nnaji now looks like a completely different player. He has emerged as an impactful two-way power forward, spacing the floor and knocking down shots on offense while bringing much-needed energy, defense, and rim protection.
His resurgence has given Denver a crucial boost, helping to stabilize their bench and address one of their biggest weaknesses. As the playoffs approach, Nnaji’s unexpected breakout could be exactly what the Nuggets need.
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