ROSTER SHAKEUP: Denver Nuggets Release Former Clemson Star PJ Hall, Opening Two-Way Slot After Limited 2024-25 Role

The Denver Nuggets made a notable roster adjustment this week by releasing former Clemson standout PJ Hall, officially freeing up a two-way roster spot ahead of a critical 2025 offseason. The move, while unsurprising to some close to the organization, signals the franchise’s intent to retool its bench depth and maintain flexibility as it eyes another deep playoff push behind stars Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray.

Hall, who joined the Nuggets for the 2024–25 season, saw limited action during his rookie campaign, appearing in 19 games and averaging just 1.7 points and 1.2 rebounds per contest. Despite flashes of promise, the 6-foot-10 forward never carved out a consistent rotation role and often found himself shuffled between the NBA squad and Denver’s G League affiliate, the Grand Rapids Gold.

PJ Hall came into the NBA with plenty of upside after an impressive collegiate career at Clemson University. Known for his physicality, mid-range touch, and ability to stretch the floor, Hall was a key part of Clemson’s resurgence during the early 2020s. He averaged 18.3 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks during his final season with the Tigers and was named to the All-ACC First Team.

Hall’s collegiate resume had scouts intrigued—especially his offensive versatility and feel for the game. But despite his productivity at the college level, questions about his defensive lateral quickness, transition speed, and fit at the NBA level kept him from being selected in the 2024 NBA Draft. Denver later signed him to a two-way contract, seeing him as a developmental big with long-term potential.

Ultimately, Hall’s time in Denver was hampered by a few key factors: crowded frontcourt depth, limited minutes for development, and an organizational focus on maximizing every roster spot amid championship contention.

Behind Jokić, Aaron Gordon, Zeke Nnaji, and Michael Porter Jr., Hall found himself buried on the depth chart. While he occasionally provided energy off the bench in blowout scenarios or during injury stretches, he struggled to make a consistent impact when given NBA minutes.

His G League performances were solid but not eye-popping, which may have contributed to the front office’s decision. Hall averaged 12.5 points and 5.9 rebounds in Grand Rapids, but never dominated the way some two-way players must to earn a full-time role. In a team environment with championship aspirations, every bench spot is evaluated through the lens of postseason utility and immediate contribution.

According to team sources, the Nuggets’ decision to part ways with Hall was based on a combination of on-court limitations and strategic timing. With Summer League approaching and free agency opening, Denver is reportedly looking to audition other young talents who may offer a more immediate return or a better fit alongside the team’s core pieces.

With PJ Hall’s departure, Denver now has an open two-way slot, giving the front office a key asset heading into July. Under the current NBA CBA, teams are allowed to carry three two-way contracts, and these slots are often used for developmental prospects, international stashes, or injury insurance.

General Manager Calvin Booth and his staff have done well finding hidden gems in the draft and undrafted markets. Two-way players like Collin Gillespie and Hunter Tyson have previously filled important G League roles while staying ready for NBA minutes. Expect Denver to pursue a similarly versatile player—likely a wing or a point guard—who can contribute immediately in training camp and Summer League.

The Nuggets are also expected to be active in undrafted free agency and may use the Summer League as an extended tryout for several prospects. The freed-up slot gives Denver critical flexibility to sign and stash a player they believe can develop into a long-term contributor.

For PJ Hall, being waived doesn’t mean the end of his NBA journey. At just 23 years old, he remains a skilled and physical big man with the shooting touch and work ethic to catch on elsewhere. His blend of size, shooting, and toughness still holds appeal for teams looking to develop a stretch big in the G League or overseas.

Several NBA scouts remain intrigued by Hall’s upside, especially if he continues to improve his perimeter defense and agility. A return to the G League on a standard contract is a possibility, and there may be interest from European or Australian teams looking for a skilled frontcourt presence.

Hall could also land a Summer League invitation with another NBA team. These opportunities have served as launching pads for many players in similar positions—those who didn’t stick with their first team but used the offseason to showcase improvements and earn a second chance.

While PJ Hall’s time with the Nuggets may not have gone as he or the franchise hoped, it wasn’t without value. Being around a championship-caliber locker room, practicing against MVP Nikola Jokić, and learning under head coach Michael Malone’s demanding system offered invaluable experience.

Teammates and coaches consistently praised Hall for his professionalism and work ethic. He embraced his role, stayed ready, and maintained a positive attitude through the ups and downs of a two-way contract life. Those qualities will serve him well in whatever opportunity comes next.

In his brief NBA minutes, Hall showed moments of his trademark touch around the basket and an improved jumper from beyond the arc. While his numbers don’t jump off the page, there’s still a foundation to build upon—and NBA development staffs often focus less on rookie-year stats and more on adaptability, growth mindset, and coachability.

Hall’s release also reflects a broader reality in today’s NBA: The margin for error is razor thin. With rosters limited to 15 standard spots and only three two-way contracts, even talented players can find themselves on the outside looking in if the fit isn’t perfect.

Teams are increasingly using the two-way system as a revolving door, testing multiple prospects throughout the year. It’s a system that rewards immediate impact and positional flexibility—two areas where Hall still has room to grow.

For every undrafted success story like Jose Alvarado or Austin Reaves, there are dozens of players like Hall who flash promise but struggle to secure a long-term home. It’s part of the unforgiving nature of pro basketball at the highest level.

PJ Hall’s departure from the Denver Nuggets closes one chapter in his professional journey but could open several new doors. With his skillset, character, and competitive background, Hall remains a name to watch in G League circles and overseas markets. Whether it’s a return to NBA Summer League or a stint in Europe, Hall has the tools and the drive to continue his career.

For Denver, the release signals a continued focus on maximizing roster flexibility and staying competitive at every level of the depth chart. With one of the league’s most talented cores locked in, the Nuggets can now use this open two-way spot to take another calculated swing on emerging talent.

In the ever-churning world of NBA roster management, one move rarely defines a player or a team. But for PJ Hall, this latest development is a challenge—one he’ll likely meet with the same grit and resilience that made him a star at Clemson and got him to the league in the first place.