Offseason Shaping Up

<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">Los Angeles - The Nuggets you saw this season could be a lot different from the Nuggets of next season.

Forward Carmelo Anthony expects change.

"I don't know what's really going to happen, but I (would) think so," Anthony said. "I wouldn't be surprised because it's been happening the last two years, going to training camp with different guys."

Said guard Andre Miller: "I wouldn't be surprised. We have so many free agents on this team."

The Nuggets have five free agents heading into the offseason: forward-centers Nene (restricted) and Francisco Elson (restricted), forward Reggie Evans and guards DerMarr Johnson and Howard Eisley. Guard Greg Buckner has a $1.8 million player's option for next season and is likely to stay with the team. Forward Kenyon Martin, who was suspended for the final three games of the playoffs for conduct detrimental to the team, is expected to be on the trading block.

With the team having been bounced from the first round of the playoffs for the third consecutive year, it's apparent the Nuggets have a long wish list in the offseason, through trades or free agency. But Denver has only a mid-level exception to offer non-roster free agents. That means only a sign-and-trade deal would land a major free agent.

A look at the team's biggest needs:

3-point shooter: The Nuggets desperately need an outside threat. They were last in the NBA in 3-point shooting during the regular season and horrid in the playoffs. Likely sharpshooting free agents include Indiana's Peja Stojakovic (player option), Utah's Matt Harpring and the Clippers' Sam Cassell.

"Most important, we need shooters," Anthony said.

Strong post player: With Nene having missed all but one game with a knee injury this season, the Nuggets had no true post presence. Center Marcus Camby prefers to shoot from the outside. Talented inside players who will be free agents include Atlanta's Al Harrington, Cleveland's Drew Gooden and Portland's Joel Przybilla.

"I like Nene," Anthony said. "He's strong, powerful. He can play in the post." </div>

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