The Denver Nuggets are among many NBA teams to inquire about the former Los Angeles Lakers superstar forward, LeBron James.
Although early rumors suggested that LeBron was strongly considering a return to the Cleveland Cavaliers or joining the Golden State Warriors for the first time in his career, Jamesâ reps opened up the lines to everybody.
Cleveland and Golden State still have a strong standing in the race for LeBron James. According to the NBA insider Marc Stein, the Nuggets believe that they are near the front of the line as well.
Denver Nuggets Get Encouraging LeBron James Update In NBA Free Agency
GettyDENVER, COLORADO – APRIL 20: Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets dunks on LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers in the fourth quarter during game one of the Western Conference First Round Playoffs at Ball Arena on April 20, 2024 in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
âThe Sixers, Nuggets and Timberwolves, league sources say, all still believe that they are in this race to some degree and getting legitimate consideration from James and his camp alongside the Cavaliers, Warriors and Heat,â Stein wrote.
The Nuggets have an impressive roster on paper, headlined by the veteran center, Nikola Jokic.
Although the Nuggets underwhelmed in the 2026 NBA Playoffs, by losing in the first round against the Minnesota Timberwolves, the Nuggets are still going to be viewed as one of the Western Conferenceâs top teams as long as they have the Jokic-Murray duo in place.
Denver Nuggetsâ Recent History
GettyOKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA – MAY 05: Nikola Jokic #15 and Jamal Murray #27 of the Denver Nuggets talk during the third quarter of Round Two Game One of the 2025 NBA Playoffs against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center on May 05, 2025 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images)
Before the 2-4 loss against the Wolves in 2026, the Nuggets had back-to-back second-round exits.
Prior to those series losses, the Nuggets were crowned the NBA Champions in 2023. On their way to the title victory, the Nuggets defeated the Timberwolves, Suns, and the Heat.
While some of the other rosters involved in the LeBron market might have more appeal on paper after recent moves, the Nuggets have the most recent championship among teams such as the Warriors, Cavaliers, Sixers, and Timberwolves.
The Nuggets were expected to make some notable moves this offseason in order to get some unfavorable contracts off the books, while looking to retain Peyton Watson on a long-term deal. So far, theyâve had a quiet offseason.
While acquiring James might not cost a lot for the team he ultimately chooses, it would be a major splash for Denver if they came out on top of that sweepstakes.
LeBron Jamesâ Lakers Run
GettyLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 22: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers walks across the court in the fourth quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game Two of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena on April 22, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
LeBron James just wrapped up an eight-year run with the Lakers.
During that stretch, he played in 479 games, averaging 25.9 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 7.9 assists.
In 2025-2026, James struggled with some minor setbacks, but he still managed to play in 60 games. James shot 51.3% from the field, averaging 20.9 points per game. In addition to his scoring, James dished out 7.2 assists per game and came down with 6.1 rebounds per game.
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