The Denver Nuggets and two key players - guard Ty Lawson and forward Kenneth Faried - could be headed for a split if the team decides to rebuild. Denver reportedly is open to trading Lawson and Faried, both of whom the report indicates are also open to being traded if the team doesn't make significant improvements this summer.
Steve Kyler of Basketball Insiders reported team president Josh Kroenke would be willing to move either player if he decides to blowup the current roster, something which likely would mean shipping off Lawson.
"As the Nuggets explore which coach should lead the team into the future, they are also weighing the notion of blowing up the team and starting over with a group that may buy into what the Nuggets are trying to build in a better way," Kyler wrote Tuesday. "As good of a piece as Lawson is to build around, his lack of confidence in the direction of the organization has become somewhat problematic. Lawson represents the Nuggets' best trade asset and it seems both parties are at least open to exploring Lawson's trade value. For the Nuggets to truly turn the corner, a major trade may be inevitable and Lawson is likely the center piece of the deal."
As for Lawson and Faried, Kyler reported both players aren't onboard for a rebuild and would be open to being traded.
"Sources close to the process say Lawson and Faried have kept no secret of their discontent and unless the Nuggets can pull off something major on the coaching front or make a significant trade, both have indicated they'd rather see a trade instead of sticking around for a long rebuild," Kyler wrote.
Lawson vented his frustration with Denver on Instagram last month when he purportedly told an NBA fan he wished he could play for the Dallas Mavericks. Sacramento Kings coach George Karl is also reportedly interested in trying to acquire Lawson, and according to Kyler, the Nuggets are receiving a number of inquires from interested teams.
Faried signed a contract extension at the start of the season, which may make moving him more difficult. Prior to the hiring of Karl, the Kings were reported as being high on the 25-year-old.
