The Denver Nuggets continue to make adjustments to their rotation in the midst of another postseason push. The latest move comes in the form of former Charlotte Hornets guard KJ Simpson, who has joined on a two-way contract.
According to Shams Charania, Simpson's two-way contract replaces Spencer Jones, who was previously converted to a standard contract and will become a restricted free agent in the summer.
The Nuggets are planning to sign former Charlotte Hornets guard KJ Simpson to a two-way NBA deal, sources tell ESPN. Simpson averaged 7.3 points and 21.3 minutes in 50 games over a season and a half in Charlotte. He replaces Spencer Jones after Jones was converted to a standard deal. https://t.co/X4ZUkcGzzA
- Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) 19 February 2026
Jones' promotion was largely procedural but also performance-earned. The 24-year-old has emerged as a reliable rotation wing while battling injuries, starting 34 of 46 games while averaging 6.0 points, 3.1 rebounds and 23.6 minutes per game.
His 41.4% 3-point shooting and 50.5% overall field goal percentage have made him an underutilized but highly functional spacer in Denver's offense. More importantly, Jones' defensive impact means he ranks 24th in defensive rating (118.1).
Nuggets ready to sign former Hornets guard KJ Simpson to two-way NBA contract @shamscharania. pic.twitter.com/IMZHp1SlZk
- ClutchPoints NBA (@ClutchPointsNBA) 19 February 2026
Contract conversion also solves the roster compliance issue. Denver had dropped to 13 standard contracts following the Hunter Tyson trade, making Jones' promotion the simplest way to meet the league's 14-player minimum.
The Nuggets still retain an open roster spot, with Jones' current deal also allowing the franchise to make some significant financial changes. Denver is already projected to have over $200 million in salary commitments next season and looks to add some much-needed depth.
Jones began the year on a two-way contract, which typically leads to a lower qualifying offer after conversion to a standard deal. However, since he has already started 34 games, the 24-year-old is close to reaching the league's starting cap.
Simpson averaged 7.3 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.9 assists in 21.3 minutes in 50 NBA games with Charlotte before being waived. His G-League production has been remarkably strong, posting 18.4 points, 5.5 rebounds and 4.6 assists with Greensboro, indicating considerable offensive potential.
Selected 42nd overall in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Charlotte Hornets, Simpson has not appeared in a single game for the Hornets since the start of the campaign and will be eager to get his first taste of NBA action in the current campaign.
