The Minnesota Timberwolves have decided to waive oft-injured center Nikola Pekovic, opening a roster spot in the process. The move was an expected one, as the 31-year-old has only appeared in 271 games for the team in seven seasons. He missed the entire 2016-2017 campaign due to a troublesome right foot.
The 6-foot-11 big man was a second round pick back in 2008 but only started playing in the NBA after two years due to his live contract with Panathinaikos Athens. He had his best season in 2013-2014, averaging 17.5 points and 8.7 rebounds while shooting 54.1 percent from the field. His promising performance resulted to a five-year, $60 million deal signed four seasons ago.
Despite still having another year to play in his current deal, the Wolves ultimately waived him to have more cap flexibility, which will be crucial if they pursue a big name star in free agency. They have been linked to Jimmy Butler, who will have the opportunity to play for his former coach, Tom Thibodeau, should a deal be completed.
Pekovic will be able to sign with any team that shows interest in his services once he clears waivers. However, he will need to prove that he has recovered completely from his injuries, and he'll likely have to accept a small role and contract to resurrect his career in the NBA.
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