The Denver Nuggets made a roster adjustment on Wednesday by waiving rookie guard Tamar Bates and signing David Roddy to a two-way contract, aiming to enhance their wing depth for the remainder of the regular season, according to a league source. This move reflects the team’s strategy to balance their lineup after recent additions and injuries.
Nuggets Replace Bates with Roddy to Strengthen Wing Options
Tamar Bates, Denver’s initial two-way signing from last offseason’s draft night, was waived to open a spot for David Roddy. Bates has been sidelined since December due to a fractured foot. Roddy, a Colorado State alumnus, was brought in to provide additional size and versatility on the wing after the Nuggets signed point guard Tyus Jones from the buyout market earlier in the week.
Roddy was acquired from Raptors 905, Toronto’s G League team, where he averaged 14.4 points and 7.2 rebounds across 20 games this season. He initially signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Toronto Raptors last summer but was waived during October roster cuts before joining their G League affiliate.
Team’s Roster Composition and Recent Signings
Before signing Roddy, the Nuggets’ two-way spots were all held by guards, including Curtis Jones, Tamar Bates, and newcomer KJ Simpson. Adding Roddy to the roster introduces a forward presence, which the team desired after choosing to secure Tyus Jones as a ball-handler to fill the standard 15-man roster slot.
This adjustment makes the team’s available wings more balanced, addressing a positional need that emerged as they progressed through the season. The decision comes as the Nuggets manage injuries and roster flexibility during a competitive stretch.
David Roddy’s Professional Journey and College Impact
David Roddy, 24, is a 6-foot-5 forward who spent three seasons at Colorado State University. During his junior year, he was pivotal to the Rams’ performance, leading them to a No. 6 seed in the NCAA Tournament and earning the Mountain West Player of the Year award. Roddy was selected 23rd overall in the 2022 NBA Draft and began his professional career in Memphis following a draft-night trade involving Philadelphia.
Roddy has appeared in 168 NBA games over four seasons, playing for the Memphis Grizzlies, Phoenix Suns, Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, and Houston Rockets. His experience as a journeyman forward brings valuable adaptability and depth to Denver’s roster.
Significance of the Move and Outlook for the Nuggets
This transaction highlights the Nuggets’ ongoing efforts to maintain roster flexibility while addressing positional needs amid player absences and new acquisitions. By waiving Tamar Bates, who has been out with injury for several months, and signing Roddy, Denver aims to strengthen their wing options as they push toward the playoffs.
With David Roddy now included, the team gains added size and scoring potential on the wing, which could bolster their defensive and offensive schemes. The move also underscores the Nuggets’ strategy of balancing guard and forward roles within their two-way contracts to optimize depth.
As the season advances, Denver’s adjustments like this will be critical in sustaining competitive performance and adapting to roster challenges. Fans and analysts will be watching how Roddy integrates with key players such as Jamal Murray, Nikola Jokic, and Curtis Jones moving forward.
