Nuggets Show Promising Signs Despite Preseason-Opening Loss to Jazz.
The Denver Nuggets opened their 2026-27 preseason with a 109-97 loss to the Utah Jazz on Sunday night at the CU Events Center in Boulder, Colorado. Despite the loss, Denver received encouraging performances from several players as the team began evaluating its roster and rotation. Julian Strawther led the Nuggets with 14 points off the bench, while Aaron Gordon added 12 points. They were the only Denver players to score in double figures. Utah had five players reach double figures, led by Lauri Markkanen with 17 points and Keyonte George with 15. With Jamal Murray sidelined, Tyus Jones received the start at point guard and made the most of the opportunity. Jones finished with eight points, six assists, and two rebounds in 19 minutes. He shot 3-of-6 from the field and 2-of-3 from three-point range. Jones’ performance provided an early indication of what he could bring to Denver’s second unit during the regular season. His ability to handle the ball, distribute, and knock down perimeter shots could make him an important part of the Nuggets’ backcourt depth. Rookie forward Trevon Brazile also made an impact in his first preseason appearance. With Spencer Jones unavailable, Brazile received 20 minutes off the bench and recorded seven points, three rebounds, and two blocks. He made three of his four field-goal attempts. Brazile tied Strawther for the most minutes played among Denver’s reserves. Additional preseason opportunities could give the rookie a chance to strengthen his case for a larger role in the frontcourt. Lonnie Walker IV had a more limited opportunity in his Nuggets debut. Walker did not enter the game until the fourth quarter and played nine minutes. He finished with three points, three rebounds, two assists, one steal, and one block while shooting 1-of-4 from beyond the arc.
Walker is competing for a roster spot, making Denver’s remaining preseason games important opportunities for him to establish his place within the team. Another positive development for the Nuggets was the return of several players who dealt with injuries during the 2025-26 season. Gordon, Christian Braun, and Cam Johnson were all back on the floor for Denver. Gordon contributed 12 points and four rebounds. Although the Nuggets were without Murray and Spencer Jones, having several key rotation players healthy provided an encouraging sign as Denver begins preparations for the regular season. The final score is secondary during the preseason, when teams are primarily focused on evaluating players, experimenting with rotations, and preparing for the regular season. Denver’s loss to Utah still provided several positives, particularly the performances of Tyus Jones and Brazile and the return of key players to the lineup.
