Danilo Gallinari says he told Nuggets at deadline he didn’t want to be traded

As the February trade deadline approached, the Clippers and Celtics were calling the Nuggets. Among the topics, stretch four Danilo Gallinari.

No deal happened, obviously. Gallinari is about to head to camp as a floor-spacing forward for Mike Malone as he tries to build on the culture change and youth movement started to happen last season in the mile high city. That’s the way the Italian wanted it — he told Denver he didn’t want to be traded, something he said at a recent press conference (as transcribed at Denver Stiffs).

“In Denver I am very well, there was a chance last year to go to some other team before the deadline in February, but I refused. If I return to Italy would be back to Olympia but with the intention of winning, I don’t like the idea of nostalgic revisiting”

(Translation courtesy of Bing Translation, and confirmed by individuals who were at the press conference)

To be clear, Gallinari could not block a trade, he does not have a no-trade clause in his deal. If Denver wants to move him, they can. However, it is possible the Nuggets went to him and asked if he wanted to be moved, if they should pursue these avenues, and he said no.

Later in the press conference, Gallinari talked about liking it in Denver.

“I’ve been in the United States for eight years, this will be my ninth season in NBA, I consider myself fortunate to have realized the dream of all children who play basketball. Now my goal is to win something in Denver, I’ve played there for five years now and I love it. I am very well and I hope to win with the Nuggets. Although “Super Teams” are now fashionable such as Golden State and Cleveland, to win in Denver this season will be very difficult for everyone.”

Winning will be difficult because this is such a young team. Emmanuel Mudiay, Nikola Jokic, Jusuf Nurkic, Jamal Murray, Malik Beasley, and Juan Hernangomez are all 21 and younger. There is real talent in Denver, they could take some big steps forward in a couple of seasons (be patient Nuggets fans), but this season is going to be about development and growth.

Gallinari is the old man of the group, he’s not likely part of the long-term future. Which is why his name will continue to come up in trade rumors. He is set to make $15 million this season, with a $16 million player option next year (he probably will opt out to secure a longer deal). He’s an attractive target for a lot of teams.

Maybe Gallinari will change his mind. Or, maybe the Nuggets will find an offer they like so much they will not ask Gallinari what he thinks. But I’d be surprised if we don’t hear more Gallinari trade talk this coming season.