3 Trades Denver Nuggets need to make to get Nikola Jokic a better supporting cast

The Denver Nuggets are still one of the NBA's most elite teams today. However, their standing this season isn't up to par compared to their previous seasons. Two seasons ago, Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets to the first title in franchise history. While they failed to defend their title in the following season, they remained near the top of the mountain, securing the second seed.

This season, the Denver Nuggets are in fourth place in the Western Conference with a 28-17 record. While their standing is already considered good, it could be better, especially with a team led by the three-time MVP.

Here are three trades the Nuggets need to make to help provide Jokic with a better-supporting cast.

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Jimmy Butler and two other players the Denver Nuggets need to trade for

#1, Jimmy Butler

NBA: Denver Nuggets at Miami Heat - Source: Imagn

Jimmy Butler is the hottest trade target in the NBA at the moment. Butler openly expressed his desire to leave the Miami Heat after their president, Pat Riley, said harsh words about the star forward. Since then Butler hasn't been playing consistently, and both parties are actively trying to find a new home for him.

With that in mind, the Denver Nuggets may want to take advantage of Butler's vulnerability and try to make the Heat an offer. Having a player like Jimmy on the Nuggets will not only add more offense but will solidify the team's hustle on defense.

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#2, Brandon Ingram

NBA: Phoenix Suns at New Orleans Pelicans - Source: Imagn

There have been several rumors that the New Orleans Pelicans are ready to rebuild and move on from the Brandon Ingram era. If the sentiments are true, then the Nuggets may want to consider targeting the Pelicans wing. Ingram is one of the league's most versatile scorers. He can score from the inside, midrange and outside.

While Denver already has guys like Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. who provide these services, having someone like Ingram would be a huge upgrade considering he possesses all these offensive skillsets.

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#3, Zach LaVine

NBA: Philadelphia 76ers at Chicago Bulls - Source: Imagn

Another player whose name has always been brought up in trade talks is Zach LaVine. This was especially true for the LA Lakers as his name always came up whenever the Purple and Gold tried to make moves in the trade market. However, nothing has truly come to fruition as LaVine remains with the Chicago Bulls.

If the Denver Nuggets decide to pursue the star guard, he might end up being a perfect fit for them. Zach LaVine is more of an inside scorer who can shoot the ball from outside when needed. His playing style would go well with Russell Westbrook and Nikola Jokic as the two stars can easily set him up for a nice finish to the rack.