DENVER, CO — In a stunning development that could have major consequences for the franchise, the NBA has launched a formal investigation into the Denver Nuggets for alleged tampering involving a high-profile free agent currently under contract with another team, league sources confirmed Friday.
According to insiders familiar with the matter, multiple teams submitted complaints to the league office after reports surfaced suggesting the Nuggets engaged in unauthorized contact with an All-NBA player during the final weeks of the regular season. The identity of the targeted player has not been officially disclosed, but sources indicate it involves a marquee name expected to headline the 2025 free agency class.
The league’s investigation centers around communications reportedly initiated by a member of the Nuggets’ executive team without the consent of the player’s current organization. If found guilty, Denver could face serious penalties, including hefty fines, the loss of future draft picks, and potential suspensions of key front office personnel.
“This is a serious breach of protocol if proven true,” said one Eastern Conference executive. “Teams talk all the time behind closed doors, but this level of direct engagement — during a live season — crosses a very clear line.”
The news comes at a precarious time for the Nuggets, who are already dealing with organizational upheaval following the abrupt dismissals of head coach Michael Malone and general manager Calvin Booth. The team is also battling through a difficult playoff series against the Los Angeles Clippers, adding yet another layer of instability to an already turbulent postseason.
Franchise cornerstone Nikola Jokić and veteran guard Jamal Murray have not commented publicly, though sources inside Ball Arena say there is growing frustration among players who feel distracted by off-court drama while trying to focus on their championship push.
The NBA’s investigation is expected to conclude in the coming weeks, but early indications suggest the league is treating the matter with urgency and seriousness, given the precedent such violations could set in a rapidly evolving free agency environment.
If the allegations are substantiated, it could mark one of the most damaging off-court scandals in franchise history — threatening the Nuggets’ long-term credibility, stability, and ability to attract elite talent in future seasons