Two Potential Destinations for Jusuf Nurkic

Jan 21, 2017; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Nuggets center Jusuf Nurkic (23) in the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Clippers at the Pepsi Center. The Nuggets won 123-98. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

Jusuf Nurkic could still be dealt before the deadline.

Jusuf Nurkic has had a difficult season to say the least.

After starting out very well, it seems as if it has been down hill from then on. He was relegated to the bench and was given many DNP’s from head coach Michael Malone. It was puzzling at first, but when fans started seeing his sloppy play which did not off-set Jokic’s play well at all, it became apparent very quickly.

Later on, he then made his displeasure known in an interview when asked about being traded and elaborated on how if it happens then it happens.

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He has had some bright spots here and there, but the Nuggets could still get some value for him if he does not want to remain in the Mile High.

Many teams could use a post presence like Jusuf Nurkic and he could probably do with a change of scenery.

There are two teams in particular that could utilize Nurkic. Disclaimer: All trades have been checked by ESPN’s Trade Machine.

Jan 23, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Nuggets forward Wilson Chandler (21) dribbles the ball against Boston Celtics forward Jae Crowder (99) in the first quarter at Pepsi Center. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

The Boston Celtics

Boston could use a defensive post presence like Jusuf Nurkic.

They have been in need of a solid rim protector for a while now. Not to mention, he could be a nice contrast from Al Horford while coming off the bench.

Horford is a great offensive threat who can stretch the floor, but the Celtics could still use some defensive help. Insert Nurkic.

Meanwhile the Celtics possess a versatile small forward in Jae Crowder that the Nuggets could really use.

I know you may be thinking that Denver already has plenty of small forwards.

Keep in mind that Gallinari is a free agent this summer and it is unclear about how Chandler feels about his current role on the team.

Crowder would be a great insurance policy if Gallo were to walk this summer. Crowder is very underrated and could fit in greatly in the city of Mile High since they embrace gritty players like him.

Dec 28, 2015; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Jazz forward Gordon Hayward (20) shoots the ball defended by Philadelphia 76ers forward Nerlens Noel (4) and guard JaKarr Sampson (9) during the first quarter at Vivint Smart Home Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports

The Philadelphia 76ers

The 76ers could cure their front-court problem by obtaining Nurkic. They could finally allow Nerlens Noel to find his true potential else where and have Nurkic come off the bench to have a nice one-two punch.

Philadelphia is also an extremely young squad, so bringing Jameer Nelson could benefit this team too.

The Nuggets have been in need of a solid rim protector for a while now and Noel could help fill that void. He would be a great counter balance with his defense while starting with Nikola Jokic on the floor.

With Faried coming off the bench, the Nuggets would suddenly possess one of the most feared front-courts in the entire NBA. Noel has a ton of raw talent, so he may just need the right chance to harness that potential and show why he is valuable.

Plus, some much needed defense would help the Nuggets tremendously. On top of this, Nelson’s departure would allow Jamal Murray to get more much needed minutes.

The Denver Nuggets could fit that bill. While it would be sad to see Nurkic go, it is a business at the end of the day.