Denver Nuggets shooting guard Will Barton is popping up on teams' radars as the end of the year approaches.
According to a report by ESPN's Chris Haynes, the Washington Wizards and New Orleans Pelicans have inquired about the crafty bench scorer's availability, though talks are merely exploratory.
Now that Gary Harris is back on the fold, Barton's minutes have taken a slight dip as he's unable to play the small forward position very long because of his slight frame at a slight 6-foot-6 and 175 pounds.
With Jamal Murray and Malik Beasley coming into their own for a few games and standing right behind the Portland Trail Blazers for the last playoff spot, the Nuggets could dangle Barton in order to add a key piece to their rotation.
Barton can help a team in need of a slasher — he's a good finisher around the rim, athletic with good instincts around the basket. While the jump shot is a work in-progress, it is efficient enough to keep defenders at bay.
His $3.5 million per year contract runs until 2017-18 and can be an outright bargain for any team that can land his services.
The Pelicans would make a great fit for him, as they can potentially slight him right into the shooting guard position, giving another scorer to pair with Anthony Davis and Jrue Holiday.
The Wizards have a log jam at small forward with two bright prospects in Otto Porter Jr. and Kelly Oubre – both athletic forwards that show promise, but yet remain inconsistent. Barton is unlikely to crack a starting spot with Bradley Beal being a lock at shooting guard. His best bet would be one of a sixth man's role if the Wizards can ship out any of their valuable assets.
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