Denver Nuggets 2026 NBA Draft Preview

The Denver Nuggets entered the season with championship expectations, but a first-round exit brought those hopes to an early end.

After taking the Oklahoma City Thunder to Game 7 in the second round last season, many believed the Nuggets had what it takes to make a deep run this postseason. However, injuries and inconsistent production exposed many flaws within Denver’s roster. The Nuggets lacked depth throughout the playoffs, while their defense and athleticism often struggled against faster teams.

Now, the Nuggets enter the offseason needing more than minor adjustments to continue competing with the NBA’s top teams. With Nikola Jokić still in his prime, Denver cannot afford to waste this championship window. Nuggets owner Josh Kroenke has made it clear that only Jokić is untouchable, opening the door to significant roster changes.

With limited cap flexibility this offseason, the NBA Draft becomes one of Denver’s most important opportunities to improve the roster.

Although the Nuggets have later picks, they could still land talented prospects capable of making an immediate impact. After all, Denver already knows how valuable the draft can be, as Jokić was selected in the second round before becoming one of the best players in the NBA.

Nuggets Draft Picks:

• Round 1 — No. 26
• Round 2 — No. 49 (via ATL)

Nuggets Draft Needs

The most apparent need for the Nuggets is defense. As both Peyton Watson and Aaron Gordon were injured this postseason, Denver’s defense showed many signs of weakness.

Targeting versatile, defense-oriented prospects will allow the Nuggets to build a stronger defense without relying solely on a few players. With Watson entering restricted free agency this offseason, Denver may need to explore replacing his role through the draft to avoid further defensive struggles.

Besides defense, additional ball-handling is needed. Although Jamal Murray and Jokić are the primary ball-handlers, having another reliable option would help alleviate pressure on the offense. It would also help stabilize possessions when either is off the floor.

Nuggets Draft Targets

Meleek Thomas — PG — Arkansas

After reports that Meleek Thomas will remain in the 2026 NBA Draft, he has become an intriguing option for the Nuggets at pick 26. While he is not the top ball-handler in this draft, his scoring ability and offensive upside make him a strong fit for Denver’s need for additional guard playmaking and backcourt depth.

As a freshman, Thomas averaged nearly 16 points per game while shooting 41.6% from three. Thomas has also averaged just one turnover per game, showcasing his ability to control the ball and make efficient decisions on offense.

At 6-foot-5, Thomas can hold his own on defense, while also disrupting the opposing offense. This is apparent as Thomas recorded 1.5 steals per game. Thomas’s skill set could provide Denver with both immediate depth and long-term backcourt potential.

Dailyn Swain — SF — Texas

Dailyn Swain is one of the prospects most frequently linked to the Nuggets. As a junior, Swain just had a career year with the Texas Longhorns. He averaged 17.3 points, 3.6 assists, and 7.5 rebounds over 36 games, while having 54.2/34.4/81.5 shooting splits.

At 6-foot-8, Swain can play both shooting guard and small forward. Offensively, he can score at all three levels, using his elite finishing ability to attack the rim while also providing perimeter shooting. Despite his size, he possesses impressive ball-handling skills for a forward, which allow him to create shots for himself and others.

On defense, he has a strong upside and could be a difference-maker for the Nuggets. Swain has very active hands, averaging 1.6 steals per game over the last two seasons. His athleticism gives him the skill set to be a versatile defender, capable of guarding multiple positions. If Denver drafts Swain, he could immediately address several of their biggest needs.

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Ugonna Onyeso — C — Virginia

As the Nuggets desperately need rim protection, having capable size off the bench could greatly benefit them. Ugonna Onyenso brings just that. 

Though he does not provide much offense, Onyenso stands at 7 feet tall and has elite shot-blocking abilities.

During his senior year with the Virginia Cavaliers, he averaged 2.9 blocks per game. With Jokić already carrying the offensive load, Denver would not need Onyenso to be a scorer. Instead, his value would come from providing reliable rim protection and defensive stability whenever Jokić is off the floor.

Onyenso is projected to be available late in the second round, giving the Nuggets a realistic opportunity to add him with the No. 49 pick.