The Denver Nuggets pulled off an impressive playoff run that ended just short of resulting in an NBA Finals appearance. A critical element to their success was the play of Jerami Grant.
Grant was able to display real versatility on both ends of the court in the Western Conference Finals. Between spending time guarding LeBron James and his typical do-it-all impact on both ends, Grant set himself up nicely for what could be a lucrative next contract.
According to Mike Singer of Denver Post, Grant is expected to opt-out of the final year $9.3 million player option he has to become a free agent. He could receive ‘anywhere from $14 million to $16 million annually over several years.’
Grant is due $9.3 million next season if he decides to opt into his current contract, according to hoopshype.com’s salary database. A league source suggested Grant could command anywhere from $14 million to $16 million annually over several years.
There will be no shortage of potential suitors for Grant’s services when he becomes a free agent — even though he stated he would prefer to stay with the Nuggets. His ability to knock down open shots and make an impact with his athleticism provides real value.
Any team that needs to add speed to its defense should be willing to do what it takes to land Grant. Any unit that has a high-level rim protector could field a highly intriguing defense with such frontcourt versatility.
The Nuggets will need to decide how they want to approach their supporting cast this offseason. In addition to Jerami Grant likely becoming a free agent, Paul Millsap’s contract is set to expire and Will Barton will be back from injury next season.
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