NBA Rumors: Nuggets "Have Traction" On Bones Hyland Trade

A number of sources have reported that the Denver Nuggets have been gauging the market for their dynamic second-year player Bones Hyland. And according to Mike Singer of The Denver Post, they do have traction on at least one potential deal. 

The Nuggets believe they have traction on potentially acquiring a first-round pick for Bones Hyland, per @msinger

This really might get done 👀 pic.twitter.com/tiaSgGjYM1

— NBACentral (@TheNBACentral) January 30, 2023

The trade in question would land Denver a first-round pick in return for Hyland. The 22-year-old still has two years left on his rookie deal at about $6.4M. He's averaging 12.3 points and 3.0 assists in nearly 20 minutes per game and shooting 37.9% from downtown. 

Late last week, we reported on the Nuggets' trade efforts for Hyland, which apparently centered around a number of factors, including alternates already on the roster, to luxury tax implications, to a possible personality clash with head coach Michael Malone.

The coach has noted that the team must find ways to compensate on defense when Hyland (and Ish Smith) are on the floor. 

To that end, Singer reports that the Nuggets are looking for players with a two-way skillset (i.e. defensive as well as offensive capabilities), and/or draft compensation, though he feels that their preference would be a player that helps them win now.

Bottom line, however, notes Singer, is that they will not be trading Hyland for nothing. "He's good, and he's got plenty of fans around the league."

Photo: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports