Denver Adds Two Players in a Day: Adelman Assembles the Puzzle Around Jokic

This move by the Colorado team was anticipated, given that the guard position was seen as the thinnest and potentially most vulnerable segment of the squad heading into the season.

Reese Dixon-Waters (24 years old, 6'5") joins from San Diego State, where in his final NCAA season, he averaged 13.1 points and 3.6 rebounds per game, shooting a respectable 35.6 percent from beyond the arc. Before his tenure at San Diego State, this 24-year-old guard built his collegiate career at the prestigious USC.

On the other hand, Keonte Johnson (also 24 years old) arrives after a season at the University of Dayton, where he recorded 7.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game.

Johnson posted significantly more impressive numbers earlier in his career at Cal State Northridge, averaging 13.1 points, an impressive 9 rebounds, and 4 assists, showcasing exceptional athletic versatility in perimeter roles.

The arrival of two new guards clearly signals the coaching staff's intent to bolster competition. In the backcourt, Denver currently relies on Christian Braun, who is coming off an inconsistent and challenging season, veteran Demar DeRozan, as well as Spencer Jones and Julian Strother.

However, expectations are that DeRozan and Strother will spend significantly more minutes at the wing position in Rick Adelman's tactical schemes, which opens up considerable room for Dixon-Waters and Johnson to compete for the remaining spots in the rotation.

Between seasons, Denver has been busy in the transfer market: contracts were successfully extended for Tyus and Spencer Jones, while DeRozan, Alpha Diallo, and Marvin Bagley arrived in Colorado as significant reinforcements. With the signings of Dixon-Waters and Johnson, the Nuggets are putting the finishing touches on their roster before the battle for the championship ring begins.