The Denver Nuggets have released veteran point guard Jameer Nelson prior to their season-opener against the Utah Jazz on Wednesday night, according to Shams Charania of The Vertical.
Nelson will clear the way for the signing of Richard Jefferson, who agreed to a one-year deal with the team after being waived by the Atlanta Hawks following a trade with the Cleveland Cavaliers to ease part of their luxury tax burden.
He was the third option at the point guard spot after Jamal Murray and Emmanuel Mudiay competed for the starting job during the preseason.
The 13-year veteran played sparingly during the preseason, but head coach Mike Malone wants to develop the young pieces in the roster. His departure should also allow Malik Beasley to get some spare minutes at the point as part of the second unit as Malone experiments with different lineups after the addition of Paul Millsap over the summer.
Nelson is expected to clear waivers on Friday, at which point he'd be free to sign with any team of his choice if any offers remains available.
The 6-foot St. Joseph's star averaged 9.1 points, 5.1 assists, and 2.6 rebounds per game last season and should still prove serviceable to teams looking to scoop up a veteran floor general.
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