The Denver Nuggets have officially signed Curtis Jones, a talented undrafted guard from Iowa State, to a two-way NBA deal, in recognition of his outstanding performance in Summer League. Denver’s third and last two-way roster place is guaranteed with this deal, which also demonstrates the Nuggets’ smart strategy for identifying talent and bolstering their depth for the 2025–26 season.

From Undrafted to Nuggets Roster: Summer League Breakout

During Denver’s 2025 Summer League season, Curtis Jones made his NBA debut as a shocking suprise. He shot 47% from outside the arc, which is an excellent shooting percentage for a rookie guard, and averaged 15.0 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 3.8 assists over the course of five games. His offensive firepower and court awareness were highlighted when he dominated the Lakers with 22 points, 8 assists, and 5 rebounds, including 56.3% from the field.

Jones’s performance was too good to overlook, as evidenced by the Nuggets offering him their final two-way position after his flawless exhibition of shooting, playmaking, and scoring.

Two-Way Contract Dynamics: What It Means

Under the two-way deal:

Jones is eligible to play in up to 50 NBA games with Denver.

Off-game days will see him developing with the Grand Rapids Gold, Denver’s G League affiliate .

This plan allows Jones the freedom to develop in a culture that has won championships, polish his abilities in both professional settings, and progressively advance into NBA rotations.

Jones’ Journey: Underrated to Unstoppable

A 6-foot-4 guard, Jones charted a non-linear route to his NBA moment. He signed an Exhibit 10 contract after being initially undrafted out of Iowa State and gained his spot through hard work and promise. His scoring prowess and team versatility won him First-Team All-Big 12 and Big 12 Sixth Man of the Year awards while he was a college player.

His Summer League statistics further supported the scouts’ observations, which included explosive scoring, assured off-ball shooting, and steady defensive instincts—qualities that the Nuggets highly value.

How He Fits: Nuggets’ Roster & System

The experienced presence in Denver is strengthened with the offseason signings of Tim Hardaway Jr., Bruce Brown, and Tamar Bates. The squad lacked a dynamic two-way swing scorer, which Jones is now ready to provide.

His outstanding three-level play and perimeter efficiency provide:

Shell rotation: Support Murray and Jalen Pickett by providing bench scoring and space relief.

G-League readiness: Prepared to take charge in program or G-League emergencies.

Benefit: High-reward swing that might pave the way for more seasoned guards like Malcolm Brogdon to teach.

Jones is obviously seen by Denver’s front management as a low-risk, high-potential investment, which is consistent with their aggressive player development strategy and mid-tier contract approach.

Comparing Curtis Jones and Teammate Spencer Jones

Notably, Jones joins Spencer Jones (Stanford), who re-signed a month earlier, as the second “Jones” on Denver’s two-way roster. Denver has a balanced guard depth thanks to Curtis’ young quickness, scoring flair, and size, while Spencer provides seasoned shooting.

What’s Next: Path to NBA Minutes

Jones will fight for few regular-season reps at training camp.

Opportunities for an early rotation: Most likely occurred during cup games, blowouts, or rest settings.

Dominance in the G-League: His best option is to succeed with Grand Rapids, generating calls when Denver needs quickness off the bench or sharpshooting.

Denver may turn his two-way into a full roster deal if he performs well in those settings; it would be a blatant example of player development.

Nuggets’ Strategy: Talent Pipeline & Smart Investing

Denver’s move to sign Jones emphasizes a broader strategy:

Undervalued assets: Scouring summer leagues for overlooked talent.

Roster flexibility: Balancing veteran additions and high-upside rookies.

Sustainable depth: Building a stable core with players who can step in dynamically.

With one two-way asset left, Denver’s door remains open if the chance to add another sleeper prospect arises.

Final Take

The two-way acquisition of Curtis Jones represents the most recent development in Denver’s strategy for long-term success, which combines mining upside talents with blue-chip expertise. He now joins a competitive and encouraging Nuggets setup after his outstanding Summer League play opened a door.

Jones may become a hidden weapon—a shooting spark that can alter game results or win a spot on the NBA roster—if he keeps up his strong shooting and hustling.

As the season progresses, keep a careful eye on Denver’s development pipeline because it may yield another undiscovered treasure.