Nicolas Batum Doesn’t Want to Return to the Blazers?


Nicolas Batum sent out a tweet denying that he’s looking to bolt Portland, but a CSNNW report insists that Batum would much prefer to sign a deal in Minnesota: “Nic Batum does not want to return to the Portland Trail Blazers ‘under any circumstances for a variety of reasons,’ according to an NBA source close to the situation. Batum, a free agent who visited the Minnesota Timberwolves this week, is said to have told the Blazers Tuesday that he does not want to return to the team. Minnesota has reportedly offered Batum $45 million over four seasons as a free agent but is said to be willing to negotiate a sign-and-trade deal with the Trail Blazers for a package that might include players and future draft choices. Batum’s agent tried to negotiate a contract extension during the season but believes the team low-balled him with an offer estimated around $6 million. ‘Batum never wants to play in Portland again,’ the source said. ‘And has determined that Minnesota is the best for him and his family.’ Apparently Batum has a relationship with Wolves point guard Rickey Rubio and while in Minnesota this week developed a relationship with the team’s coach, Rick Adelman.”