Welcome to Denver, Kessler Edwards
Kessler Edwards has officially joined the Denver Nuggets, signing an Exhibit 10 contract. At 6-foot-8 and 25 years old, the forward has potential to claim the team’s final roster spot, but it’s uncertain whether the franchise sees him simply as a training camp body and G League player.
Opportunity to Prove Himself
This year’s training camp is a significant chance for Edwards to demonstrate his skills and secure a lasting NBA contract. He was the 44th overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft from Pepperdine and previously played for the Brooklyn Nets, Sacramento Kings, and Dallas Mavericks.
Performance Overview
In 178 NBA games, Edwards has averaged 3.6 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 0.6 assists in just under 13 minutes per game while shooting 36% from three-point range. Known for his defensive versatility, he excelled during his time on the Mavericks, proving to provide value as a potential end-of-bench player.
Last Season’s Success with Mavericks
During the 2024-25 season, Edwards flourished in expanded minutes with the injury-plagued Mavericks, starting 18 games. He shot 40.7% from behind the arc and averaged 7.1 points with 4.2 rebounds during that stretch. A standout moment was his career-high 22 points against the Spurs, showcasing his ability to score effectively near the basket.
Defensive Skills and Versatility
Edwards also boasts solid rim protection stats for a forward, demonstrating versatility in guarding multiple positions. He has successfully defended top scorers like Devin Booker and Giannis Antetokounmpo, showing he can excel both on-ball and as a team defender. The Nuggets may view his blend of defense and shooting as essential for their roster depth.
Edwards’ Path to the Final Roster Spot
Given the structure of his contract and the Nuggets’ existing two-way roster, Edwards finds himself in a high-stakes situation: he must either secure a full-time position or risk being released. His success hinges on displaying his shooting accuracy and flexibility on defense during training camp.
Conclusion
Training camp will be pivotal in determining Edwards’ future with the Nuggets. Based on his potential and the needs of the team, he has a promising chance to secure the 15th roster spot.
