Denver signs two-way guard after changing Jones’ contract

The Denver Nuggets continue to tweak their rotation amid another postseason push. The latest move comes in the form of former Charlotte Hornets guard KJ Simpson, who is joining on a two-way deal.

Simpson’s two-way contract replaces Spencer Joneswhich was previously converted into a standard contract and will become restricted free agent in the summer, according to Shams Charani.

The Nuggets plan to sign former Charlotte Hornets guard KJ Simpson to a two-way NBA contract, sources tell ESPN. Simpson averaged 7.3 points and 21.3 minutes in 50 games in a season and a half in Charlotte. He takes over for Spencer Jones after Jones was converted to a standard deal. https://t.co/Ks4ZUkcGzzA

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 19, 2026

Jones’ promotion was mostly procedural, but also earned on performance. The 24-year-old has proven to be a reliable rotational wing during an injury-riddled stretch, 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 made him a little-used but very functional spacer in Denver’s offense. More importantly, Jones’ defensive performance means he is 24th in scoring defense (118.1).

The Nuggets are set to sign former Hornets guard KJ Simpson to a two-way NBA contract, @ShamsCharania. pic.tvitter.com/IMZHp1SlZk

— ClutchPoints NBA (@ClutchPointsNBA) February 19, 2026

Contract conversion also solves the problem of roster compliance. Denver dropped to 13 standard contracts after trading Hunter Tyson, leaving Jones’ promotion as the easiest way to meet the league’s 14-man minimum.

The Nuggets still have one open roster spot, and Jones’ current contract also allows the franchise some important financial options. Denver is already projected to exceed $200 million in salary cap space next season and has added some much-needed depth.

Jones began the year on a two-way contract, which usually leads to a lower qualifying offer after converting to a standard contract. However, having already started 34 games, the 24-year-old is close to reaching the league’s starting threshold.

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 production in the G-League was significantly stronger, with 18.4 points, 5.5 rebounds and 4.6 assists with Greensboro, indicating significant offensive potential.

The Charlotte Hornets selected 42nd overall in the 2024 NBA DraftSimpson has not appeared in a single game for the Hornets since the start of the campaign and will be itching to get his first taste of NBA action in the current campaign.