Nuggets waive Wilks, looking at center

By Chris Tomasson, Rocky Mountain News (Contact)

Published November 28, 2007 at 12:21 p.m.
Updated November 28, 2007 at 12:21 p.m.

Text size

More Denver Nuggets

The Nuggets, in need of a big man, have waived point guard Mike Wilks, and indications are they will sign center Jelani McCoy, who was with the team in training camp.

“He’ll be in uniform (Thursday) against the Lakers (in Los Angeles),” Giovanni Funicello said of McCoy, who was in Denver’s training camp before being waived. “They need a big man and he’s the right fit for them.”

Wilks was told after Tuesday’s game that he was being waived.

“I was called into the office by (team adviser) Bret (Bearup),” Wilks said. “I knew then what it was a about. I said, ‘Is it time?’ He said, ‘Yeah.’ I thanked them. They were up front with me.”

With point guard Anthony Carter having returned from injury and playing well, Wilks was expendable. Because of injuries to Nene, Kenyon Martin and Steven Hunter, the Nuggets were in need of a big man.

“I got a message from Mark Warkentien (Denver’s vice president of basketball operations) that they need big (man) help,” said Bill Neff, Wilks’ agent.

Reached in Los Angeles, Warkentien confirmed he was at the Los Angeles D-Fenders NBADL game Tuesday night in Los Angeles, but declined further comment.

Playing for the D-Fenders was McCoy, a seven-year NBA veteran. Indications are, barring a late snag or another big man unexpectedly becoming available, he will join the Nuggets for their game Thursday in Los Angeles against the Lakers.

Wilks averaged 3.0 points in eight Denver games.

“I enjoyed my time there and understand it is a business,” Wilks said.

Wilks said he hopes to return soon to the NBA. He said Washington has shown some interest.

Subscribe to the Rocky Mountain News