Northwest Division Roundup: Jones’ Contract Talks, Dosunmu’s Fit, Johnson’s Return, Nuggets Eye 15th Roster Spot
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DENVER — The Nuggets still plan to convert two-way forward Spencer Jones to a standard deal once he exits concussion protocol, but head coach David Adelman said the process is moving slowly.
“The negotiation is being slow-played because of the concussion,” Adelman told reporters, noting that vice president of basketball operations Ben Tenzer and executive vice president of player personnel Jon Wallace are handling talks with Jones’ representatives. “Let’s get him right and then let Ben and Jon and his agency talk.”
Jones has already hit the 50-game limit for two-way players, making a new contract essential as Denver enters the season’s final stretch.
Timberwolves banking on long-term payoff from Dosunmu trade
MINNEAPOLIS — Minnesota acquired guard Ayo Dosunmu at last week’s deadline to shore up its backcourt, but president of basketball operations Tim Connelly said the club views the soon-to-be restricted free agent as more than a rental.
“We’re certainly hopeful it’s a long-term match,” Connelly said, adding that Dosunmu “could be a huge part of our core.”
According to The Athletic, the Wolves pivoted to Dosunmu after realizing Milwaukee had little interest in substantive Giannis Antetokounmpo discussions. The smaller deal allowed new ownership to keep cornerstone pieces Jaden McDaniels, Anthony Edwards and Naz Reid intact. Dosunmu pointed to Nickeil Alexander-Walker’s success in Minnesota as a model and said he wants to be known as “a winning player” who thrives in the postseason.
Johnson bolsters injury-depleted Nuggets
Forward Cameron Johnson returned Saturday against Chicago, logging 14 points on 6-for-9 shooting in his first game action since Dec. 23. The appearance was timely: Peyton Watson (at least one month), Aaron Gordon (multiple weeks, hamstring) and Jones (concussion protocol) are all sidelined, leaving Denver thin at forward.
Johnson said the team closely monitored his conditioning during rehab so he could immediately handle “mid- to high-20s” minutes upon return.
Denver weighing buyout market for final roster spot
Beyond Jones’ expected conversion, Denver still has an open 15th roster slot. The Denver Post highlighted several potential buyout targets:
- Guards: Lonzo Ball, Tyus Jones, Chris Paul
- Wings/Bigs: Khris Middleton, Kyle Anderson, Chris Boucher, Haywood Highsmith, Kevin Love, Georges Niang
Love has a prior relationship with Adelman from their time together in Minnesota, and the Nuggets have previously shown interest in Ball.
Source: HoopsRumors
