The team’s failure to reach the Western Conference Finals in an attempt to defend its 2023 title led to the Denver Nuggets is going through changes this offseason. Nikola Jokic While the face of the Nuggets remains, the organization has seen key veterans like Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Reggie Jackson and Justin Holiday leave the door in free agency. Denver signs former league MVP Russell Westbrook To bolster their bench, trade rumors were circulating that the Nuggets might consider adding one of Jokic’s Serbian teammates.
Vasilije Micic, known for his decorated Euroleague career, decided to join the NBA and the Oklahoma City Thunder last season. While he was a key veteran presence on the Thunder’s bench, Micic was eventually traded mid-season to the Charlotte Hornets in the deal that sent Gordon Hayward in Oklahoma City.
With the Hornets, Micic played a more solid role, averaging 10.8 points and 6.2 assists per game because of All-Star guard LaMelo Ball’s injury.
This offseason, Micic and Jokic teamed up on the Serbian national team at the 2024 Olympics and ended up winning the bronze medal. The connection between these two teammates grew, which led to rumors the Nuggets could seek a trade for Micic in order to strengthen their backyard.
Recently, Micic close these rumors, claiming that he is happy with the Hornets.
“I’m staying in Charlotte. It’s official,” Micic told EuroHoops. “All these rumors that are going around, I didn’t want to comment on them until there was something concrete. There was probably some interest, but nothing conclusive enough for me to comment on. I’m happy that they want me here and I think the next season will be more productive for me.”
Heading into the 2024-25 NBA season, Micic is expected to play a key sixth-man role in Charlotte behind Ball, who is returning from injury. Given his experience with both the national team and the Euroleague, the 30-year-old will be a valuable asset the Hornets will lean on for production.
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As for playing with Jokic and the Nuggets, Micic noted that you can never say never.
“I would like to play with Jokic, but I don’t know what’s going to happen. I think I need another year to show what I can do in the United States. No matter what you do outside of the United States, they still only trust players who have proven themselves in the United States. So, I think one season with a trade and two solid months is not enough for a team of that caliber to be sure to bring me in.”
“But maybe next season. We’ll see.”
