6 Basketball Players who Played for Nuggets and Cavaliers
There is a good chance that if you’ve found this page then you’re playing the Immaculate Grid.
That also means that today’s grid has asked for players that have played for both the Denver Nuggets and Cleveland Cavaliers.
And, it also means that you’re probably stuck on this particular box and you’re looking for a little help. Sound about right so far?
Well, good news, you’re in the right place.
I’ve done some research and have found players who played for both the Nuggets and the Cavaliers.
Andre Miller
Andre Miller was drafted 8th overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 1999 NBA Draft after a successful college career at the University of Utah. His NBA journey took him to multiple teams including the Clippers, 76ers, Trail Blazers, Nuggets, Wizards, Kings, Timberwolves, and Spurs.
Throughout his career, Miller was often among the league leaders in assists. In fact, as of this writing, he ranks 12th all-time in assists in the NBA (8524). He also led the league in assists in 2001-02, averaging 10.9 assists per game.
Miller was never an All-Star but was a key contributor on many teams throughout his 17-year career, demonstrating an ability to fit into various systems and roles.
Miller Key Stats
- 5+ Assists/Game Season (Cavaliers, Clippers, Nuggets, 76ers, Trail Blazers)
J.R. Smith
J.R. Smith was drafted straight out of high school by the New Orleans Hornets with the 18th overall pick in the 2004 NBA Draft. Over his career, Smith played for several NBA teams including the Nuggets, Knicks, Cavaliers, and Lakers.
His most noteworthy accomplishments came with the Cavaliers, where he was a key player in their 2016 championship run, providing crucial scoring and perimeter defense alongside LeBron James and Kyrie Irving. Smith would win another championship with LeBron in 2020 and the Lakers, but in a much more limited role.
Smith’s time in the NBA was marked by high-scoring performances and a streaky shooting style, which earned him both praise and criticism. He was known for his ability to catch fire from three-point range and go on impressive scoring runs.
Richard Jefferson
Richard Jefferson spent 17 seasons in the NBA. Known for his athleticism and scoring ability, he played for several teams but is probably best remembered for his time with the New Jersey Nets and Cleveland Cavaliers.
He was drafted by the Houston Rockets with the 13th overall pick in the 2001 NBA Draft and was subsequently traded to the New Jersey Nets. With the Nets, Jefferson reached the NBA Finals in his rookie and sophomore seasons alongside teammates Jason Kidd and Kenyon Martin.
In 2016, Jefferson won an NBA Championship with the Cleveland Cavaliers. He played a key supporting role alongside LeBron James, helping the Cavaliers come back from a 3-1 series deficit in the NBA Finals against the Golden State Warriors.
Jeff Green
Jeff Green has played for numerous teams in the NBA. He was initially drafted 5th overall by the Boston Celtics in the 2007 NBA Draft, though he was immediately traded to the Seattle SuperSonics, where he spent the first part of his career.
Green has had a journeyman career, playing for 11 different teams in his 15-year career including the Thunder, Celtics, Grizzlies, Clippers, Magic, Cavaliers, Wizards, Jazz, Rockets, Nets, and Nuggets. He was a solid contributor to the Nuggets Championship this past season.
Green’s versatility and ability to play both inside and outside have allowed him to fit into various roles on different teams. He’s been both a starter and a valuable bench player throughout his career, contributing with his scoring, rebounding, and ability to defend multiple positions.
Chris Andersen
Chris Andersen, commonly known as “Birdman,” debuted in the NBA with the Denver Nuggets in 2001. With his athletic ability, particularly as a shot-blocker and rebounder, Andersen quickly carved out a role for himself. His high-flying dunks and blocks energized both teammates and fans.
However, Andersen faced challenges off the court. In 2006, he was dismissed from the NBA for two years for violating the league’s drug policy. Demonstrating resilience, Andersen used this period to rehabilitate and eventually made a successful return to the NBA with the New Orleans Hornets in 2008.
Perhaps the most memorable stint of his career was with the Miami Heat. Joining the team in 2013, Andersen played a pivotal role off the bench during the Heat’s championship run, helping them secure the NBA title that year.
Mike Miller
Mike Miller was a player known for his shooting ability, particularly beyond the arc. He was selected as the 5th overall pick in the 2000 NBA Draft by the Orlando Magic, and his standout performances during his rookie season earned him the NBA Rookie of the Year Award.
In 2003, he joined the Memphis Grizzlies, where he was named the NBA Sixth Man of the Year for the 2005-2006 season. Miller’s career then took him to the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Washington Wizards, but it was his tenure with the Miami Heat that brought him significant recognition.
Joining the Heat in 2010, Miller played a key role in the team’s back-to-back NBA Championships in 2012 and 2013. He made a significant contribution in Game 5 of the 2012 NBA Finals, when he made 7 of 8 three-point attempts, helping the Heat secure the championship.
