Forward Antoine Walker still hopes he and the team can come to an
agreement on a buyout that would allow him to clear waivers and join
another team by March 1. "We’re talking, both sides," Walker said.
"We’re trying to figure out a number that will work for both sides."
Wolves owner Glen Taylor said negotiations have not gotten to the point
where he would get involved.
The issue, of course, is money. By comparison, when the Wolves bought
out Juwan Howard at the end of October, he received $10 million of the
$14-plus million he was owed for the final two seasons of his contract.
"They know how to get it done," Taylor said. Walker was inactive for
the third consecutive game.
From Marty Burns/SI.com:
From interviews with various league sources, it appears that at least
four of the above-named players will be suiting up for a contending
team in the days ahead. The exception is Walker, a 12-year veteran
forward who is currently playing for the Timberwolves and would
therefore have to be bought out of the one full season (and $9.1
million) left on his contract.
"The only one I don’t see happening is [Walker]," said a Western
Conference general manager who wished to remain anonymous. "Unless the
buyout is for pennies, I don’t see how [the Timberwolves] save enough
in cap space to make it worthwhile."
Walker, who is making US$8.5 million this season and is scheduled to
earn $9.3 million next season, does not want to give up much of his
guaranteed money. The Wolves have already coughed up millions to buy
out Juwan Howard and Troy Hudson within the past year, however, and are
not eager to do that again. Walker could be a valuable trade asset this
summer, so holding onto him for now is more likely.
"I’m not sure anything’s going to happen or not," agent Mark
Bartelstein said. "We’ll see. We’ve had conversations. If we can’t get
something worked out, then he’ll stay there."
From Mike Max/WCCO:
As reported last week, the Minnesota
Timberwolves continue to try and work out a buy out of Antoine Walker’s
contract; it seems like it’s getting closer.
As reported last week, the Minnesota
Timberwolves continue to try and work out a buy out of Antoine Walker’s
contract; it seems like it’s getting closer.
"Hopefully something happens. If not then we’re going to
try and see what goes on this summer. But right now it’s still a good
chance, but working on it. Both sides are trying to be fair about the
situation so hopefully something gets resolved," said Walker.
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