Wolfson: Would Blazers Chase Timberwolves C Nikola Pekovic In 2013 Free Agency?

Darren Wolfson of 1500ESPN.com in Minnesota wonders whether the Portland Trail Blazers will have interest in Minnesota Timberwolves center Nikola Pekovic during the 2013 summer free agency period.

One team official scoffed at the notion that center Nikola Pekovic, who is a restricted free agent this summer, could command $12 million/year on the open market.

I do, too, but big men are constantly in demand, and the Blazers, in desperate need of one, will have cap space.

If Pekovic doesn't get $12 million a year, the hunch is he'll come close. That makes me wonder, if Kahn can find the right replacement, whether he'll pull the trigger.

Wolfson reported possible interest in Pekovic from Portland back in October as well.

An internal fear exists at Target Center that soon-to-be restricted free agent Nikola Pekovic will be wooed Nic Batum-style next July and handcuff the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The best way for the Wolves front office to combat such a scenario is to present Pekovic and his agents a very workable extension on July 1, before other teams can make their pitch. But the collective-bargaining agreement prevents the Wolves from signing him to an extension before then.

Pekovic, 27, is a bruiser averaging 15.7 points and 8.1 rebounds in 31.9 minutes per game in his third season with the Timberwolves. He currently ranks No. 16 among centers in PER.

-- Ben Golliver | benjamin.golliver@gmail.com | Twitter