Denver Nuggets rumors: Kenneth Faried wants to be leader

April 10, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Denver Nuggets forward Kenneth Faried (35) celebrates against the Golden State Warriors during the fourth quarter at Oracle Arena. The Nuggets defeated the Warriors 100-99. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
April 10, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Denver Nuggets forward Kenneth Faried (35) celebrates against the Golden State Warriors during the fourth quarter at Oracle Arena. The Nuggets defeated the Warriors 100-99. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Denver Nuggets have reportedly went back-and-forth on their stance regarding a contract extension for Kenneth Faried. Some in the front office see him as a key focal point moving forward while others think he’s a very solid complimentary player.

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Rumors have swirled for some time suggesting the Nuggets may wait until restricted free agency to present Kenneth Faried with a contract given his alleged contractual demands, but as pointed out earlier in the day the two sides are said to be talking about a new deal.

Might that be because of Faried’s attitude change?

The athletic power forward has been saying all the right things this offseason and has apparently been working on his game as well, adding new versatility to an already impressive arsenal.

"When Kenneth Faried returns to the Nuggets he’s got a checklist of things he will have added or wants to enhance when he gets back. He’s spent a lot of time working out in Los Angeles.On the court, it’s the development of a 15-foot jump shot.“So I’m able to step out and pick-and-pop more,” Faried said. “And if I need to, pick-and-roll.”In the locker room, it’s “being more of a leader, a lot more of a leader. Trying to step up into that leadership role.”"

You can’t really ask for much more from a young player who is a gym rat and wants to put the franchise on his shoulders, especially after he was rumored to be on the trade block just a few short months ago.