NBA Teams Weigh Contract Moves Involving Magic, Nuggets and Jazz
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Orlando Magic
Front-office executives around the league are monitoring Orlando’s next steps as Paolo Banchero’s maximum extension is set to begin, according to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto. The focus has shifted to guard Anthony Black, who is eligible for a rookie-scale extension after posting numbers comparable to those Jalen Suggs recorded before landing a five-year, $150 million agreement. League insiders believe Orlando may eventually have to part with one of its young core players to manage future payroll pressures.
Denver Nuggets
Denver is exploring ways to trim salary and has made forward Zeke Nnaji and the No. 26 pick in this week’s draft available in trade talks, Scotto reported. Nnaji has not been a regular part of Michael Malone’s rotation in recent seasons. With Peyton Watson heading toward restricted free agency and the team’s overall payroll climbing, attaching a late first-round selection to Nnaji’s contract could help the defending champions gain financial flexibility.
Utah Jazz
The Jazz are interested in re-signing center Jusuf Nurkić, who delivered 10.9 points, 10.4 rebounds and a career-high 4.8 assists during his first season in Utah. The 12-year veteran is an unrestricted free agent, but Scotto indicated there is mutual interest in a new deal after Nurkić provided stability in the paint throughout the year.
The draft and free-agency periods are expected to clarify each team’s roster and cap strategies in the coming weeks.
Source: Hoops Wire
