Denver Nuggets decline Vlatko Cancar’s option, remain open to return
David Zalubowski
Vlatko Cancar became an unrestricted free agent Sunday after the Denver Nuggets declined his player option for next season.
The Nuggets could’ve retained the reserve forward’s services on a $2.35 million contract for next season. Now, Denver’s front office will see if they can bring him back on a deal that makes more sense for both parties. Because Cancar is entering his sixth NBA season, the Nuggets can offer him a veteran minimum contract worth more than $2.4 million, while the contract would count less than $2.1 million toward Denver’s salary cap.
After posting a career best five points per game in Denver’s 2023 championship season, Cancar missed all of the 2023-24 season after tearing his left anterior cruciate ligament while representing Slovenia in international play last summer. Cancar is on the roster and set to make his return to the court as Slovenia looks to qualify for this summer’s Olympics.
The Denver Gazette confirmed the team’s decision Sunday afternoon. The Denver Post was first to report the news.
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