Nuggets president Tim Connelly could have led the Wizards’ front office, worked close to his native Baltimore and presumably gotten a raise from his reported $2 million salary.
Instead, he’ll stay in Denver.
Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN:
Denver Nuggets President of Basketball Operations Tim Connelly is remaining with the franchise, league sources tell ESPN. Connelly met with Washington owner Ted Leonsis on Friday about running the Wizards.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) May 20, 2019
Washington’s search is expected to turn back toward the finalists, including OKC’s Troy Weaver, Danny Ferry and interim GM Tommy Sheppard.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) May 20, 2019
This is a huge win for Denver and even bigger setback for Washington.
Connelly has put the Nuggets into a great position. They’re young and good in a combination rarely seen in NBA history. Connelly drafted Nikola Jokic in the second round then built around him a short time later. This season, Denver won 54 games and reached Game 7 of the second round with 24-year-old Jokic flanked by Jamal Murray, Gary Harris and Paul Millsap.
More decisions always lie ahead – notably Millsap’s $30 million team option for next season. But the Nuggets’ core is already in place and mostly under team control.
The Wizards need far more work. John Wall’s contract is arguably the NBA’s worst. Ian Mahinmi and Dwight Howard are also roadblocks. Several key players will be free agents this summer. If he makes an All-NBA team this season, Bradley Beal be eligible for a super-max extension – a tricky decision for the club.
It would have been great for Washington to entrust Connelly with all that. He has proven excellent at his job.
Troy Weaver, Danny Ferry or Tommy Sheppard might do well for the Wizards. But they’re candidates who offer far less certainty.