The Denver Nuggets on Sunday waived center Ronny Turiaf, who should attract some interest from playoff contenders.
Turiaf began the season with the New York Knicks, who dealt him to the Washington Wizards as part of the Tyson Chandler deal. He played just four games before breaking his hand and was included in Thursday’s three-team deal that landed Nene in Washington.
The 6-10 Turiaf has played backup center minutes for the Los Angeles Lakers, Golden State, New York and Washington in a seven-year career, averaging 5.2 points, 3.8 rebounds and 1.36 blocks in 362 games.
He appears to be a good fit for the Boston Celtics, who are using Kevin Garnett at center and desperately need a big man with both Jermaine O’Neal and Chris Wilcox likely out for the season.
Philadelphia and Miami, both a bit on the smallish side in their frontcourts, might also have interest. The deadline to sign a waived player and have him eligible for the postseason is Friday.
Turiaf is the third player waived since being moved at the trading deadline. The Golden State Warriors waived T.J. Ford, who was included in the Stephen Jackson-Richard Jefferson deal with San Antonio and is planning to retire due to a neck stinger suffered earlier this month.
The Cleveland Cavaliers waived forward Jason Kapono, acquired from the Los Angeles Lakers in the Ramon Sessions deal. Kapono’s shooting ability could foster some interest.
The Houston Rockets have yet to waive Derek Fisher, which reportedly is their plan following a buyout of the remaining year on his contract.
What about Orlando? Is Otis going to go 2 complete seasons without a backup for Dwight?