Nuggets extend Kleiza’s contract

According to a press release from RealGM.com, the Denver Nuggets have made a qualifying offer to forward Linas Kleiza, who is currently playing for the Olympiakos. Kleiza signed a two-year deal worth $12.2 million with Olympiakos last season and averaged over 17 points and seven rebounds in his first season with the team. He also won the Alphonso Ford Trophy. He also played with former Hawks’ guard Josh Childress.

The Nuggets will retain Kleiza’s rights until he returns to the NBA and the squad could try and sign him for the next season. However, it remains up in the air as Kleiza recently stated that he wants to finish out his contract with Olympiakos. His versatility is valuable with his ability to shoot and drive and he could be dangerous in certain matchups. The Nuggets could also use Kleiza as a trade chip to get a pick in this year’s NBA Draft or receive a player from another team.

(Photo by Jonathan Maness)