According to Eurohoops.net, the Nuggets are rumored to be very interested in signing European star Nando de Colo. The article states Denver has had interest in him for sometime and is willing to meet his salary and playing time requirements in order to secure de Colo’s return to the NBA.
De Colo’s time thus far in the NBA has been unremarkable. A two year run with the Spurs saw the 6’5″ 28 year old point guard make several trips to the D-League and ultimately ended with him being traded to the Toronto Raptors. After finishing out the 2013-2014 season, de Colo elected to return to Europe and signed with Russian powerhouse CSKA Moscow where he’s been absolutely dominating. His stellar play recently culminated with CSKA winning the Euroleague title and de Colo being announced the final four MVP.
This rumor hints at a few things. First, this seems to indicate that, as everyone expected, Nikola Radicevic is definitely not coming over to the NBA next season as he just returned from hip surgery. Given de Colo’s similar size and style, he could be meant to serve as a stop gap until Radicevic is ready to fill the role of backup PG. Second, and more surprising, this could indicate that Denver is not anticipating they will retain D.J. Augustin and is actively looking to replace him. If that’s the plan then it won’t be executed without competition. De Colo’s rights are still owned by Toronto, making him a restricted free agent and CSKA has already stated they will make him the highest paid player in Euroleague if he stays.
*** Join us for Stiffs Night Out: NBA Draft Lottery Party ***
Jake’s Sports & Spirits | 3800 Walnut Street, Denver CO
Tuesday, May 17th 5:30 PM
Join fellow Nuggets fans for our annual Stiffs Night Out NBA Draft Lottery Party. We’ll be watching live as we find out if the Nuggets won a top pick in June’s NBA draft. The lottery begins at 6pm MT so we’ll be meeting a half hour before. Stay for the Eastern Conference Finals and to bask in the glory of winning the lottery (or sulk in the misery of another year without moving up). Jake’s Sports & Spirits will have two-for-one drink deals and the Stiffs will have prizes and more. If you are a Nuggets fan, come on out and meet fellow Stiffs and Nuggets fans!
