Jamal Murray of the Denver Nuggets (Image via Getty) The Denver Nuggets have expressed trade interest in Sacramento Kings guard Devin Carter, a 23-year-old promising young player who was the 13th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. Reports suggest the potential trade involves the Nuggets acquiring Carter and a future second-round pick. At the same time, the Kings would receive wing depth in return, possibly a young forward like Peyton Watson. This deal appears to align with both teams’ roster needs and strategic visions heading into the 2025-26 NBA season.
Why Devin Carter Appeals to the Denver Nuggets
The Denver Nuggets are looking to strengthen their backcourt depth and defensive versatility around their established core of Nikola Jokić, Jamal Murray, Aaron Gordon, and Michael Porter Jr. Carter is highly regarded for his defensive motor, rebounding ability as a guard, and flashes of offensive potential that he displayed during his rookie season.Although his rookie averages – around 4 points, 2 rebounds, and 1 assist per game on 37% shooting – were modest, Devin Carter’s perimeter defense and hustle make him an ideal fit for the Nuggets’ rotation. His energetic style of play could allow him to log valuable minutes in the playoffs, where defensive intensity is critical.
Trade Framework Between Nuggets and Kings
Devin Carter (Image via Getty)
• Denver Nuggets Receive: Devin Carter, 2027 second-round pick (via Charlotte Hornets) • Sacramento Kings Receive: Peyton Watson (or a comparable young wing forward)For the Kings, this trade makes sense because of their crowded backcourt and potential signing of veteran Russell Westbrook. By moving Carter, they open up guard minutes while addressing their desperate need for wing depth. The Nuggets, in turn, would add youth and defensive energy to their backcourt along with a future draft asset.
Roster Benefits for Both Teams
• Denver Nuggets: Gain a defensive-minded guard to reinforce perimeter defense and bench depth. Acquire a draft pick for future flexibility. Improve roster balance with a promising player who fits their championship timeline. • Sacramento Kings: Resolve their guard logjam, freeing up cap space and playing time for Westbrook and others. Add needed wing depth through a player like Watson, who can complement their star frontcourt. Strengthen their chances to stay competitive in a stacked Western Conference.
Pros and Cons of the Potential Deal
AspectProsCons Denver Nuggets Adds a young, energetic defensive guard; gains draft pick; more backcourt depth in playoffs Carter’s offensive ceiling remains unproven; limited shooting efficiency (37% FG, 29.5% 3PT) Sacramento Kings Balances roster by adding wing depth; clears guard logjam for Westbrook signing Lose a young guard with upside; wing player acquired might need more time to develop Team Fit & Strategy Nuggets improve defense and bench strength; Kings gain critical wing support Potential risks with player adjustment and fit on both sides
Player Profiles and Statistical Comparison
PlayerAgePosition2024-25 Averages (per game)Shooting %Defensive Impact Devin Carter (SAC) 23 Guard 4 PTS, 2.1 REB, 1.1 AST FG 37%, 3PT 29.5% Strong defensive hustle, good rebounder for guard Peyton Watson (DEN) 22 Wing N/A (limited minutes) N/A Versatile wing defender, raw potentialDevin Carter’s collegiate resume strengthens his case as a high-upside player. In his final season at Providence, he averaged 19.7 points, 8.7 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.8 steals, earning Big East Player of the Year honors. While his NBA shooting efficiency has room to grow, his defensive intangibles and hustle stand out.
Strategic Timing of the Trade
The Denver Nuggets’ championship core of Jokić, Murray, Gordon, and Porter Jr. are locked up long term, meaning role players like Devin Carter could thrive as complementary pieces. For the Kings, the push to sign Westbrook makes reducing their guard depth a priority. Trading Carter for a wing forward provides them with better positional balance while maintaining competitiveness.
Evaluating the Overall Winner of the Deal
This trade scenario looks like a win-win. Denver secures a defensive guard who fits their identity and adds future value with a draft pick, while Sacramento addresses roster imbalance and opens space for Westbrook’s addition. The deciding factor in who benefits more long term will depend on Devin Carter’s offensive development with Denver and Watson’s growth as a wing in Sacramento.Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers Rumored to Bag $30,169,644 Miami Heat Star in Blockbuster Trade With Rui Hachimura as Key AssetIn essence, the Denver Nuggets strengthens its guard rotation and future draft flexibility, while Sacramento improves its depth and balance. Both teams make progress in line with their respective goals, making this one of the more strategic and sensible trade rumors of the 2025 offseason.