While news breaks of one Wolves big man retiring after a phenomenal career, another one may be off the team for a different reason.
The Wolves do not expect center Nikola Pekovic to play for them this season. In fact, they may be buying him out of his contract, according to owner Glen Taylor (via WCCO Radio):
@Timberwolves owner Glenn Taylor tells Chad and @SidHartman that Nikola Pekovic will not play this year and may be bought out.
— WCCO Radio (@wccoradio) September 23, 2016
Last season, Pekovic only appeared in 12 games with little success for the Wolves due to an Achilles injury. Health complications have caused the big man to miss plenty of games in the past as well. He has not played in more than 65 games in any season of his six-year career.
The Wolves are loaded with young talent and that includes the center position. Both Karl-Anthony Towns and Gorgui Dieng are young big men in need of heavy minutes. Nemanja Bjelica has proven to be a talented young prospect, as well. There really is no extended role for Nikola Pekovic on the Wolves.
If Pek does get bought out, a number of teams may pursue his services. At his peak, he can be a big body with good touch around the rim. Even if he is no longer capable of being a starter or playing high minutes, he can be a significant contributor to a good team.
