Former Orlando Magic big man Timofey Mozgov's time in the NBA appears to have now come to a close. At 31 and with no firm interest from any NBA team at the moment, it is being reported that the 7-foot-1 center will be returning to his native Russia to make a return to the EuroLeague:
Sources tell @Eurohoopsnet that Russian star Timofey Mozgov has reached a verbal commitment for a multi – year mega deal with Khimki Moscow. No solid NBA option on the table so far, so big man after 8 consecutive seasons at US is about to sign back with his former Euroleague club
— Nikos Varlas (@VarlasOCT) July 12, 2019
Mozgov was recently waived by the Orlando Magic, and it appears that the curtains have now closed on his NBA career.
For those who may have forgotten, Mozgov is actually a former NBA champion with the Cleveland Cavaliers back in 2016. This prompted a big-money deal with the Los Angeles Lakers shortly after to the tune of $64 million (!) for four years.
As most expected, Mozgov failed to live up to his hefty paycheck during his time in L.A., as he put up only 7.4 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 0.6 blocks per game in his single season with the Lakers. To date, this was one of the most baffling contracts we've come across, and happens to be one of the final strands of the Mitch Kupchak era in Los Angeles.
Last season, Mozgov was buried heavily on the bench, and he did not suit up for a single game throughout the season. He still did earn the $16 million he was owed, though. Best of luck to Timofey Mozgov as he now embarks on the next chapter of his career.