The bigger question becomes, will Nikola Pekovic ever play serious minutes in the NBA again? Any minutes?
Pekovic played in just 12 games last season (and 31 the season before that) as foot injuries have sidelined him. With Karl-Anthony Towns front and center, the Timberwolves have moved on. Their front court rotation also has Gorgui Dieng, Cole Aldrich, Jordan Hill, and maybe Kevin Garnett if he decides to play and not retire.
Coach Tom Thibodeau doesn’t sound like he’s expecting anything from the 30-year-old Pekovic.
Thibs also said Pek won't be ready to participate in camp, didn't get any impression he's expecting anything from Pek going forth.
— Jerry Zgoda (@JerryZgoda) September 21, 2016
Considering the rotation already in place up front for Minnesota, it’s hard to imagine Pekovic getting any run unless he came back fully healthy, moving very well, and he became a defensive force inside. Which sounds very unlikely.
Pekovic is still owed $23.7 million fully guaranteed this season and next.