How Julian Strawther Can Shape His Future With Nuggets
· Yahoo Sports
Julian Strawther doesn't need extra motivation entering the 2026-27 NBA season, but the circumstances surrounding his contract provide plenty of it.
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The Denver Nuggets guard is eligible for a rookie-scale extension before the season begins, and if an agreement isn't reached, he'll become a restricted free agent next summer.
Rather than focusing on contract negotiations, Strawther has made it clear where his attention lies.
"I want to take that next step," Strawther recently said, adding that his goal is to become someone who looks like "a veteran" and contributes to winning every night.
That mindset could ultimately determine both his future in Denver and his value around the league, especially with Peyton Watson still a restricted free agent as Denver has yet to agree on a deal with him.
Opportunity to Earn a Larger Role
Since being selected with the 29th overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, Strawther has steadily improved his game.
After averaging 4.5 points as a rookie in limited minutes, he broke out during the 2024-25 season by averaging 9.0 points while shooting 34.9% from 3-point range across 65 games. Although his scoring dipped to 7.2 points per game last season, he became a more efficient shooter, posting career highs in field-goal percentage (46.7%) and 3-point shooting (38.7%).
The 6-foot-6 wing has developed into a reliable floor spacer capable of fitting alongside Denver's established stars. His ability to knock down open shots, move without the basketball and play within the offense gives him value even when he isn't creating his own offense.
If Strawther can maintain that efficiency while earning more consistent minutes, he could become one of the Nuggets' most dependable role players.
Consistency Could Lead to Long-Term Security
Denver's front office now faces an important decision. Extending Strawther before the season would provide long-term cost certainty, while waiting until next summer allows the organization another year to evaluate his development.
For Strawther, the formula is simple.
The former Gonzaga standout doesn't need to dramatically increase his scoring totals. Instead, improving as a defender, becoming more consistent from game to game and continuing to make smart decisions with the basketball will strengthen his case for a significant payday.
His career averages of 7.1 points, 1.8 rebounds and 1.1 assists don't fully capture his impact, particularly as his shooting continues to improve. Players who consistently space the floor and complement star talent often become valuable pieces on playoff teams, and Strawther has shown flashes of fitting that mold.
Whether Denver reaches an extension before opening night or allows the season to play out, Strawther has positioned himself for an important year. Every game will serve as another opportunity to prove he belongs in the Nuggets' long-term plans.
If he continues building on his efficient shooting and embraces the larger role he is seeking, Strawther won't just shape his own future—he could become an even bigger part of Denver's pursuit of another championship.