Former Denver Nuggets guard traded to Western Conference contender
Rumors had circulated about the Denver Nuggets potentially reuniting with a guard they drafted in 2017, but it appears that possibility is off the table.
Tim Connelly, who departed Denver to assume the role of President of Basketball Operations for the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2022, orchestrated a trade for Monte Morris on Wednesday afternoon. Although the 28-year-old won’t be vying for an NBA title with the Nuggets, he now has that opportunity with the Timberwolves. Minnesota has emerged as one of the surprises in the league this season, currently sitting atop the Western Conference with a 35-16 record, the same as Denver. The Timberwolves had been actively seeking a backup point guard, and they found their solution in Morris.
Morris, who averaged 10.3 points and 5.3 assists per game with the Wizards in the 2022-23 season, was acquired by the Pistons. However, his 2023-24 debut was delayed until the end of January due to a quadriceps strain, and he only played six games with Detroit.
In Minnesota, Morris is expected to see an increase in playing time as he leads the team’s second unit. His arrival represents an improvement over Shake Milton, who was traded to Detroit as part of the deal. With his playoff experience, averaging 9.5 points and 3.5 assists per game with Denver in postseason play, Morris brings valuable expertise to the Timberwolves.
Connelly’s proactive approach in acquiring Morris underscores the Timberwolves’ commitment to bolstering their roster ahead of the deadline. While it wasn’t necessarily expected that the Nuggets would pursue Morris, Minnesota’s move to acquire him is undoubtedly savvy. The upcoming matchups between the Nuggets and the Timberwolves, including three more regular-season games with two held at Ball Arena, will be highly anticipated.
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