Darko

Milicic

So if he’s a DNP again, he’ll have an excuse.

The three-year deal is expected to be worth $11.6 million with an option for a fourth year that would bump the package to $16.8 million. Milicic, 18, will be a reserve this season.

Milicic had two rebounds, one foul, two turnovers and no points, and got an earful from coach Larry Brown following the game. It will be some time before he can help a fantasy team.

Milicic appeared to injure his hand while taking a jump shot, as a Lakers defender hit him. He held the hand and begged to come out of the game, but coach Larry Brown told Milicic to keep going. The injury might wreck Milicic’s chances of making the Serbian Olympic squad.

The Wolves could use the amnesty clause to rid themselves of Milicic’s $5 million contract. But the point is that coach Rick Adelman sees no use for Darko and is ready to ride with Nikola Pekovic as the long-term starting center. Milicic appeared in just 29 games this season.

Pekovic will miss matchups against the Spurs and Thunder, and it’s a tough break for owners who needed him to play at a critical time of the season. Darko Milicic will be thrust into a larger role, but he’s averaged just 5.5 points, 3.9 rebounds and one block in 23 games as a starter.

The injury isn’t thought to be serious, but it sounds like he will likely sit out tomorrow. Darko Milicic is also hurting with a stomach injury, meaning Brad Miller could get the start at center.

Pekovic is dealing with “inflammation” in his foot and it may be why he didn’t play in the fourth quarter Saturday. Darko Milicic gets the start at center. Derrick Williams and Michel Beasley also figure to pick up minutes as the Wolves will be forced to go small plenty.

Pekovic’s ankle injury doesn’t sound overly serious, at least by current reports, and there is no position battle that we can see. If you’re looking for a spot-starting center and Pek misses more time, give Darko! a look.

“He hasn’t done anything to give you faith that he’s going to go out and do the job,” Adelman said. “He’s gotten himself out of shape, and I don’t think he’s been as driven as you’d like.” Needless to say, Darko shouldn’t be owned in any fantasy leagues, while Anthony Tolliver, who had 16 points tonight in 30 minutes, could take over for Pekovic until he’s healthy.