The Denver Nuggets have once again reassigned promising forward/center DaRon Holmes II to their G League affiliate, the Grand Rapids Gold, continuing a development-focused approach for the second-year player.
Holmes has only seen limited action with the Nuggets this season, appearing in two games for a combined four minutes. With Denver’s frontcourt already stacked with experienced talent, meaningful NBA minutes are hard to come by. Sending him back to the G League gives him the chance to play real, extended minutes — something he can’t get consistently at the NBA level right now.
This move also helps him regain rhythm after a major setback: Holmes missed his entire rookie year after suffering a torn Achilles in the 2024 Summer League. The Nuggets have made it clear they still believe in his long-term ceiling by exercising his third-year team option earlier this season.
Though still early in the year, Holmes has shown flashes of why Denver drafted him 22nd overall. With the Gold, he’s already delivered standout performances — including a 27-point, 10-rebound double-double on efficient shooting. Another game saw him put up 26 points, showcasing his scoring touch, energy on the boards, and improving playmaking. These outings show his upside is still very much alive. The G League gives him the perfect environment to regain confidence, rebuild strength post-injury, and sharpen the skills needed to make an impact when he returns to the Nuggets.
For Holmes, this isn’t a setback — it’s an opportunity. Consistent playing time will help him develop at a steady pace, away from the pressure of cracking a championship-level rotation.
For the Nuggets, the assignment keeps their young big-man project on track while maintaining roster flexibility. They can recall him at any time, especially if injuries strike or additional depth is needed.
Sending Holmes back to the G League is a strategic step in his development, not a demotion. As long as he continues to build momentum in Grand Rapids, Holmes remains firmly in Denver’s long-term plans — and could return later this season as a more polished and NBA-ready contributor.
