“With a salary of $7.7 million this season and an $8.1 million team option in 2025-26, Vasilije Micić continues to be mentioned as a potential down-the-road trade target for Denver given Micic’s close relationship with Nuggets star Nikola Jokic.”

However, Stein pointed out that trading for Micic would push the Nuggets into the second apron, which would restrict their roster-building flexibility in the future.

“Bear in mind, though, Denver is just $5 million or so shy of the second luxury tax apron and thus couldn’t absorb Micić’s contract without dreaded second-apron complications,” Stein added. “The Hornets could also elect to keep Micic around to play behind former All-Star LaMelo Ball.”

Micic, a 30-year-old point guard, made the move from Europe to the NBA when he signed with the Oklahoma City Thunder last summer.

He was then traded to the Charlotte Hornets, along with Dāvis Bertāns, Tre Mann, and two second-round picks, in exchange for Gordon Hayward.

He is under contract for next season, with a team option for the following year.

At the Paris Olympics, he averaged 13.3 points and 4.5 assists per game, helping Serbia win the bronze medal.

Dennis Schroder Calls Kevin Durant ‘Weak’ for Viral Post.

Dennis Schroder has not taken kindly to a subtle dig from Kevin Durant following Team USA’s gold medal win at the Olympics.

During the Olympics, Schroder shared his thoughts on the key differences between the European and American styles of play. He argued that European basketball is all about “straight IQ basketball,” while the American game places a greater emphasis on “entertainment.”

Durant later referenced Schroder’s comments when he posted a photo of Team USA celebrating their gold medal win, complete with a caption that read “ENTERTAINMENT & IQ”.