Lonnie Walker Cut by Denver Nuggets, Potential Return to Europe Looms
Translated & summarized from Walla by baba
Lonnie Walker was released by the Denver Nuggets after failing to secure a roster spot, ending his latest NBA bid. The guard previously left Maccabi Tel Aviv to return to the NBA on a non-guaranteed deal. Walker had a strong season in Europe with Maccabi, averaging over 15 points per game. He has reportedly hired a new agent who will seek opportunities for him outside the NBA, potentially leading to a return to European basketball.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Lonnie Walker was released by the Denver Nuggets, ending his attempt to return to the NBA.
- Walker left Maccabi Tel Aviv in the summer to sign a non-guaranteed contract with the Nuggets.
- He had a successful season with Maccabi Tel Aviv, averaging 15.2 points per game.
- Walker has reportedly hired a prominent European agent, Miško Ražnatović.
- His hiring of a European agent suggests a potential return to playing basketball in Europe.
Lonnie Walker's attempt to return to the NBA has ended in disappointment, as the Denver Nuggets released him before the start of the regular season. Walker had joined the Nuggets on a non-guaranteed one-year contract worth $3.3 million after leaving Maccabi Tel Aviv in the summer. Despite his efforts during training camp, he failed to convince the team's coaching staff to keep him on the roster.
Walker, who previously signed a three-year deal with Maccabi Tel Aviv, exercised his exit clause to pursue another opportunity in the NBA. However, his limited playing time during preseason games, including not being featured in a recent victory against the Chicago Bulls, indicated his uncertain status with the team. The Nuggets ultimately decided to waive him as they finalized their roster for the upcoming season.
Despite the setback in Denver, Walker had a successful personal season with Maccabi Tel Aviv, averaging 15.2 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 2.2 assists over 45 games, with a 40% three-point shooting percentage. These statistics could make him an attractive prospect for European clubs, especially if he doesn't secure a new NBA contract.
Adding to the speculation about his next move, Walker has reportedly changed agents, appointing Miško Ražnatović, a prominent figure in European basketball representation. Ražnatović is expected to focus on finding a team for Walker outside the United States, increasing the likelihood of his return to European basketball.
Walker, originally the 18th pick in the 2018 NBA draft, has had previous stints with the San Antonio Spurs, Los Angeles Lakers, and Brooklyn Nets. He also played for Žalgiris Kaunas before rejoining the NBA for the 2024-25 season. This is not the first time Walker has been released after a training camp, having previously joined the Boston Celtics under similar circumstances before moving to Žalgiris. He is now again seeking a team, with the key question being whether he will wait for another NBA chance or opt for a return to Europe.
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