NBA Rumors: Denver Nuggets were open to trading Kenneth Faried

Denver Nuggets’ forward Kenneth Faried, nicknamed “The Manimal,” quickly became on the league’s more popular players for his high flying ability.

That’s why it raised a few eyebrows when his name was at the center of trade rumors.

The Nuggets, of course, did not deal Faried.

According to Zach Lowe of Grantland, the Nuggets were more open to trading Faried than many believed.

"But he’s better, and his improved post game has opened some eyes. Denver was willing to trade Faried in part because it feared he would demand an eight-figure salary in free agency, and perhaps even draw an offer sheet from another team carrying that kind of payday. (Faried is eligible for an extension after this season, and if he and the Nuggets can’t agree on one before October 31, he will become a restricted free agent after next season.) That’s too much for a below-average defender who can’t shoot or get buckets in the half-court, especially under Shaw, who prizes well-rounded bigs."

Faried is averaging 13.3 points, 8.2 rebounds, 1.0 assists and 1.0 blocks per game this season.

Nuggets’ general manager Tim Connelly recently expressed his desire to hang onto Faried.