Nuggets training camp capsules: Jameer Nelson

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In the buildup to training camp beginning Sept. 27, BSN Denver is profiling the Nuggets roster player by player, reflecting on their performance last year and what they have to prove in training camp, preseason, and throughout the regular season to have a productive 2016-17 campaign.

Player Profile

Jameer Nelson, 6-foot, 190 pounds

2015-2016 season averages: 39 games (15 starts), 26.6 minutes, 7.7 points (36.8 FG%, 29.9 3P%), 2.9 rebounds, 4.9 assists

Projected role: Backup point guard

Training camp outlook

It will be interesting to see what Nelson’s role will be in a talented and young Nuggets backcourt. With Emmanuel Mudiay and Gary Harris. penciled in as starters and No. 7 overall pick Jamal Murray set to get his minutes, perhaps sooner rather than later, it would seem that Nelson could find himself on the short end of the rotation as the year progresses.

At this point in his career, Nelson could be on the decline. He posted field goal percentage below his career average last season but still proved to be a valuable member of the team as a backup point guard and spot starter.

The big question is whether or not coach Michael Malone will give backup minutes to Nelson, the veteran, or fast track Murray’s (whom Malone and the front office have repeatedly said they view as a combo guard) development.

Nelson likely starts the season as Denver’s backup point guard but time will tell how the backcourt sorts itself out over the course of the season.

In light of this, Nelson, much like Mike Miller, may find that his biggest contribution will come in the form of being a mentor to the young Nuggets. Nelson has certainly been there and done that during his twelve-year NBA career.

Denver made re-signing him a priority last summer because of the leadership and professionalism he brings to the locker room. Both of these things will be needed as the Nuggets look to take a big step forward in 2016-2017.

At training camp this week, Nelson will have to compete for his place in the rotation, which figures to be safe early in the season. He absolutely is capable of contributing at both ends of the floor but it remains to be seen how long it will take for Murray to cut into his minutes at the one if the Nuggets front office truly envisions the No. 7 overall pick in that role.