The Denver Nuggets acquired Andre Iguodala through the mega trade involving the Phidelphia 76ers, Los Angeles Lakers and Orlando Magic. The deal sent Dwight Howard to LA and Andrew Bynum to the Sixers; while others may be struggling with their new additions, the Nuggets and Iguodala are doing quite well. Still Andre says he will opt-out of the final year of his contract. Read more after the jump.
Iguodala confirmed he will opt out of the last year in his contract that would pay him $16.1 million, instead he is hoping for stability with a longer contract and essentially more money.
Chris Tomasson of Fox Sports Florida
“Yeah, definitely,’’ Iguodala, 29, said of that being a distinct possibility. “You got to weigh options. Security-wise, a player would opt, especially with the type of season we’ve had as a team. Teams know what I can bring to them, and I know (the Nuggets) know what I can bring to a team here.
“Players get like $50, $60 or $70 or $80 (million over multiple years), whatever the number was, they gave up a big number (in an option season by opting out). But in the grand scheme of things, pretty much get it back. You got security.’’
The Nuggets were well aware that this would happen and are prepared to offer Iguodala a long-term contract. There’s a possibility that another team can come in with a better offer, but it appears Iguodala wants to remain with the Nuggets.
“My main goal is, if we win here, everything will take care of itself, no matter what,’’ Iguodala said. “I want to play for a team where I have an impact on the game without even scoring … I feel like if I win (with the Nuggets), I won’t have to worry about having to prove my worth.
“Obviously, it’s a business, so you’re going to look at your options. Here we have some good (prospects). But I’m not making any promises. But I’ve liked the last month and a half, two months, three months or however long (that Denver has been on a roll). It’s important for the future, so I’m just trying to win.’’
Iguodala never materialized into the superstar the 76ers needed but the Nuggets are a much better fit. Denver doesn’t have any superstars but instead a team of players who all know their roles and play team basketball. They’re currently 50-24 and the 3rd seed in the Western Conference; they’re one of the toughest teams to beat especially at home.
