Nicolas Batum targeted by plenty of suitors, Blazers extend qualifying offer
Portland Trail Blazers forward Nicolas Batum who is a restricted free agent this summer is getting plenty of calls from clubs interested in his services.
According to writer Joe Freeman of The Oregonian, NBA teams such as the Minnesota Timberwolves, Cleveland Cavaliers, Toronto Raptors and Sacramento Kings have made or plan on making offers to pry away the Frenchman.
Batum was quoted during the last few months of the 2011-12 season that he feels “99% certain” that the Blazers will resign him and offer him an extension and will match any offer made.
Last week the Blazers officially extended their qualifying offer and gave out this statement:
“The Portland Trail Blazers have extended a qualifying offer to forward Nicolas Batum, it was announced today by General Manager Neil Olshey.
Batum will become a restricted free agent on July 1, ensuring that the Trail Blazers will have right of first refusal should another team try to sign him. The move gives Portland the right to match any contract offer he will receive.
Batum, 23, holds averages of 10.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 26.2 minutes in 255 games (202 starts) with the Trail Blazers over four NBA seasons. A native of Lisieux, France, Batum was acquired by Portland in a draft day trade with Houston in June 2008.“
Nicholas Filipas