The Denver Nuggets have made a strategic move to enhance their frontcourt depth, adding versatile forward Kessler Edwards to support superstar Nikola Jokic. According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, Edwards’ signing brings much-needed flexibility and shooting ability to a Nuggets roster aiming to stay competitive in the Western Conference.

Edwards, a former Dallas Mavericks player, spent last season on a two-way contract but was thrust into significant playing time due to injuries in Dallas’ frontcourt. With key players like Anthony Davis, Daniel Gafford, and Dereck Lively II sidelined at various points, Edwards stepped up, showcasing his adaptability and ability to fill multiple roles—including small-ball center, a position he had never played before.

Edwards’ Performance with the Mavericks

During the 2024-25 season with Dallas, Edwards appeared in 40 games, starting 18, and averaged 4.2 points per game (PPG) and 2.9 rebounds per game (RPG). Notably, he shot a career-high 40.9% from three-point range, proving to be a reliable floor spacer for the Mavericks’ offense.

Edwards’ versatility was on full display on March 10, when he recorded a career-high 22 points and 11 rebounds in a win over the San Antonio Spurs. This double-double exemplified his ability to contribute across multiple facets of the game, making him a valuable addition for any team looking for frontcourt depth.

Despite his impact, Edwards’ playing time was limited by the restrictions of a two-way contract. Dallas opted to convert Brandon Williams’ deal into a standard contract, rewarding his ball-handling and playmaking while Kyrie Irving was sidelined. Nonetheless, Edwards’ performances throughout the season demonstrated that he was ready for a larger role in a team committed to winning.

Edwards’ NBA Journey

Kessler Edwards was originally drafted 44th overall in the 2021 NBA Draft by the Brooklyn Nets. He spent a season and a half with Brooklyn before being traded to the Sacramento Kings for the rights to David Michineau, a move that primarily served as a salary dump.

After his stint in Sacramento, Edwards signed a two-way contract with the Mavericks, where he proved himself as a versatile contributor capable of filling gaps in the frontcourt. His ability to shoot from outside, rebound effectively, and even play center in small-ball lineups highlights his potential to complement a superstar like Jokic.

Nuggets Add Multiple Former Mavericks

Edwards is not the only former Maverick to join the Nuggets this offseason. Denver has brought in four former Dallas affiliates, including two players and two coaches. Alongside Edwards, the Nuggets also signed Tim Hardaway Jr., who had previously been with Dallas before moving on in a trade to the Detroit Pistons.

On the coaching side, Denver hired Jared Dudley, formerly with Dallas, as the lead assistant, and JJ Barea, a veteran and 2011 NBA champion, as another assistant coach. This influx of Mavericks alumni adds both familiarity and experience to the Nuggets’ organization, creating a cohesive environment for Jokic and the rest of the roster.

Interestingly, Edwards and Hardaway never played together in Dallas. Hardaway had been with the Mavericks as part of the Kristaps Porzingis trade and remained with the team until the previous offseason, while Edwards only joined Dallas for the 2024-25 season. Despite this, the Nuggets’ acquisitions highlight a deliberate strategy to blend talent, experience, and versatility in their pursuit of another Western Conference title.

What Edwards Brings to Denver

Kessler Edwards’ signing provides the Nuggets with multiple advantages. His ability to play both forward positions and occasionally slide into the small-ball center role gives coach Michael Malone flexibility in rotations and matchup schemes. His three-point shooting will also help space the floor for Jokic, who thrives in pick-and-roll scenarios and thrives when surrounded by shooters.

Beyond statistics, Edwards’ work ethic and adaptability are key traits for a team aiming for deep playoff success. His prior experience stepping into high-pressure roles in Dallas shows he can rise to the occasion when injuries or roster needs arise—a quality that will be invaluable for a Nuggets squad looking to contend against elite Western Conference opponents.

Impact on the Nuggets’ Championship Outlook

With Edwards added to the roster, the Nuggets have bolstered their frontcourt depth, providing Jokic with more reliable support. This depth is crucial as Denver aims to protect its championship aspirations, especially in the playoffs where injuries and fatigue can heavily impact rotation players.

Edwards’ presence also allows Denver to experiment with small-ball lineups, a strategy that has become increasingly effective in modern NBA basketball. By spacing the floor and providing versatility, Edwards can contribute to both offensive efficiency and defensive flexibility, making the Nuggets harder to defend.

Conclusion

The signing of Kessler Edwards marks a strategic move by the Denver Nuggets to strengthen their frontcourt and support Nikola Jokic with versatile, reliable talent. From his journey through Brooklyn, Sacramento, and Dallas, Edwards has proven his ability to adapt and deliver under pressure. His three-point shooting, rebounding, and positional flexibility make him a valuable asset for a team aiming to compete at the highest level.

Combined with other former Mavericks additions—both players and coaches—Edwards’ arrival signals a focused strategy by Denver to blend experience, talent, and versatility. As the Nuggets prepare for the upcoming season, fans can expect Edwards to play a key role in keeping Denver among the elite teams in the Western Conference, providing Jokic with the frontcourt support needed to make another championship run.