KJ Simpson Joins the Denver Nuggets
A familiar face is returning to Colorado basketball! The Denver Nuggets are planning to sign former University of Colorado (CU) Buffs standout, KJ Simpson, to a two-way contract. This move fills the roster spot vacated by Spencer Jones’ recent conversion to a standard NBA deal, as reported by league sources to The Denver Post.
Simpson’s Background and Potential
Simpson, 23, was recently waived by the Charlotte Hornets after the trade deadline. Drafted 42nd overall by the Hornets in 2024, he has appeared in 50 NBA games over the past two seasons, making 17 starts. His averages include 7.3 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game. The 6-foot-2 guard brings valuable ball-handling depth to the Nuggets as they navigate the final stretch of the regular season.
Despite currently sitting in third place in the Western Conference, the Nuggets’ hold on a top-seven playoff seed is precarious, with only a three-game cushion. It’s important to note that Simpson will not be eligible for NBA playoff games while under a two-way contract.
Nuggets’ Two-Way Contract Situation
With the addition of Simpson, the Nuggets now have three guards occupying two-way spots: Simpson, along with rookies Curtis Jones and Tamar Bates. This provides the team with flexibility and developmental opportunities.
A Colorado Legend Returns
Simpson’s collegiate career at Colorado spanned three years and 98 games. He earned First Team All-Pac-12 honors as a junior and etched his name into CU history with a game-winning shot against Florida in the 2024 NCAA Tournament, propelling the Buffaloes to the second round. That Colorado team achieved a program-record 26 wins. Simpson was one of three Colorado players – alongside Tristan da Silva and Cody Williams – drafted in 2024.
Understanding Two-Way Contracts
Players on two-way contracts divide their time between the NBA and the G League, based on team needs. The Nuggets’ G League affiliate, the Grand Rapids Gold, has been short-handed recently, with players like Jones, Bates, and DaRon Holmes II either assigned to Denver or sidelined due to injury.
Nuggets’ Guard Rotation and Future Considerations
The Nuggets have been utilizing Jalen Pickett and Julian Strawther as complementary guards in the starting lineup while dealing with injuries. Tim Hardaway Jr. provides a scoring spark off the bench.
Spencer Jones’ Free Agency Outlook
Looking ahead, Spencer Jones faces a potentially expensive restricted free agency this summer. If Jones starts seven more games, reaching a total of 41, he will qualify for a CBA provision that would increase his qualifying offer to over $5 million. The Nuggets must decide whether to extend a qualifying offer to retain his rights, considering their existing payroll commitments to players like Peyton Watson, Christian Braun, and Aaron Gordon. The team’s financial situation could lead to difficult decisions regarding roster depth.
Learn more about NBA contracts and free agency: NBA Free Agency Guide
