The Toronto Raptors are expected to find out on Wednesday whether they will be granted permission from the Denver Nuggets to speak to Masai Ujiri about the team’s general manager vacancy.
As sportsnet.ca’s Michael Grange reported, new MLSE head honcho Tim Leiweke filed a formal request over the weekend asking for permission to speak to the Nuggets general manager.
Wednesday will be the earliest day the Raptors can begin negotiations with Ujiri, and it will only be if Ujiri hasn’t received a significant offer on a contract extension from Denver.
Ujiri, whose contract is expected to expire this summer, was recently named the NBA’s Executive of the Year after building a roster that lacked in star power but still managed a third-place finish in the Western Conference.
Prior to joining the Nuggets, Ujiri was the assistant general manager in Toronto, and is said to be “intrigued” by the idea of returning.
“They have some pieces there,” an NBA source told Grange. “And he likes challenges.”
Ujiri is believed to be on a shortlist which includes Indiana Pacers GM Kevin Pritchard, Raptors assistant GM Ed Stefanski and Thunder assistant GM Troy Weaver among others.
