Denver Nuggets free agency rumors

With free agency now underway so too are the rumors. While the Nuggets appear to be taking a backseat in the pursuit of more high-profile talents (which doesn’t really make any sense whatsoever), they do have their sights apparently set on re-signing some of their incumbent backup players. Here’s a quick roundup of whisperings floating about the Blogosphere…

According to Christopher Dempsey of The Denver Post, the Nuggets’ highest priority in free agency is re-signing Will Barton, Jameer Nelson and Darrell Arthur:

Topping the Nuggets’ to-do list is re-signing guards Jameer Nelson and Will Barton. Both played a huge role in stabilizing things on and off the court for a Nuggets team going through a turbulent season until early March, when coach Brian Shaw was fired.

According to those close to the situation, the Nuggets are a strong contender to retain his services. But for a player looking for a meaningful role, Nelson might have doubts. , The Nuggets are carrying multiple point guards — one guard under contract in Ty Lawson; Mudiay, the first-round draft pick who soon will be signed; and one on an unguaranteed contract, Erick Green.

As for Barton, the expectation is that the Nuggets will retain him.

On the other hand, forward Darrell Arthur is an unrestricted free agent. He played out the last year of his contract last season. The Nuggets would like to retain Arthur, one of the team’s best defensive players, but expected competition from a host of teams, including the Detroit Pistons, to sign Arthur.

Dempsey is also reporting the Nuggets are progressing in contract discussions with Arthur, who’s been one of the Nuggets’ best defenders over the last few years:

The Nuggets and unrestricted free agent Darrell Arthur have been in productive talks about a new contract, according to sources close to the situation. No deal, however, is imminent.

Arthur was arguably the Nuggets best defender, particularly in pick-and-roll situations. When he was on the court, the Nuggets’ defensive rating (points per 100 possessions) was 98.7. When he was off the court, that rating ballooned to 107.8.

Finally, according to Ken Berger of CBSSports.com, the Nuggets are one of several teams in pursuit of Monta Ellis:

In addition to Pacers, the Hawks, Nuggets and Kings calling on Monta Ellis, source says. With Dwyane Wade in limbo, Heat could be factor.

— Ken Berger (@KBergCBS) July 1, 2015