Darron Holmes II’s rookie season appears to be over before it even began.
Holmes, who was drafted 22nd overall by the Suns and then traded to the Nuggets, is reportedly suffering from a ruptured Achilles tendon and is expected to miss the entire 2024-25 season.
The 6-foot-9 former Dayton star was injured during the Nuggets’ first game of the Las Vegas Summer League.
He reportedly left the arena on crutches.
“Obviously he’s just gotten here,” said Julian Strother, the Nuggets’ first-round pick in the 2023 NBA draft. He spoke to reporters after the game.“But he really brings a positive energy.”
Holmes was defending under the basket against the Clippers when he took his foot off to block a jump pass and landed awkwardly on his right foot.
Holmes was expected to play a big role as the Nuggets’ top frontcourt reserve as they seek to return to the NBA Finals after losing to the Timberwolves in Game 7 of last season’s Western Conference semifinals.
The Nuggets ranked 25th in the NBA in bench scoring last season.
Holmes had 11 points and seven rebounds in 26 minutes before being injured.
He played in all 33 games for Dayton as a junior, averaging 20.4 points, 8.5 rebounds and 2.6 assists.
Holmes He said after practice last week. He said he’s “excited” to play with other Nuggets players in the Las Vegas Summer League and showcase his versatility.
Dario Saric and Vlatko Kancar could take on larger roles for the Nuggets without Holmes.
