Gary Trent Jr. Snubs Denver Nuggets: What’s Next for the Dynamic Shooter?
After losing key role players, the Denver Nuggets are on the hunt for a capable scoring threat. Free agent Gary Trent Jr. seemed like a promising option, but it appears he won’t be joining Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets.
Gary Trent Jr. Out of Nuggets’ Plans
According to a report from Harrison Wind, Gary Trent Jr. is unlikely to join the Denver Nuggets in free agency. The primary hurdle is financial—Trent Jr. would need to accept a minimum contract, which he’s not willing to do. Additionally, there doesn’t seem to be much interest from the Nuggets’ side.
“You can rule out Gary Trent Jr. as an option for the Nuggets in free agency, I’m told. He’s not going to take a minimum contract and I don’t think there would be much interest on Denver’s end anyway,” Wind reported.
Gary Trent Jr.’s Performance and Potential
Last season, Trent Jr. averaged 13.7 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.7 assists while shooting 43% from the field, 39% from three-point range, and 77% from the free-throw line. He played in 71 games for the Toronto Raptors and has maintained his health consistently over the past three seasons. Over his four seasons with the Raptors, he averaged 16.4 points, 2.7 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 1.4 steals, with shooting splits of 42% from the field, 38% from three-point range, and 83% from the free-throw line.
Contract and Future Prospects
Originally, Trent Jr. was offered $15 million to stay with the Toronto Raptors, but he sought a higher salary, especially after witnessing the contracts given to Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley. As a skilled shooter, Trent Jr. will likely attract interest from contending teams willing to offer a competitive salary or any team ready to meet his financial expectations.
There are many other rumors that he might sign the contract with the Philadelphia 76ers, and will be joining them soon. The two sides have been in contact and may reach an agreement in the next few days. The Knicks and Nuggets have also expressed strong interest, but Philly is reportedly his preferred destination.
While it’s uncertain where Trent Jr. will land, it seems his tenure with the Toronto Raptors may be coming to an end. The Nuggets, meanwhile, will continue their search for a scoring threat to bolster their roster for the upcoming NBA season.
