Nuggets HC Malone would “love” Barton back next season

After the Nuggets elimination in Game 4 of their series against the Phoenix Suns earlier this month, Will Barton didn’t give an indication one way or another whether he’d be back with Denver next season.

On Friday, however, Nuggets head coach Michael Malone indicated exactly how he feels about Barton’s return to the Mile High City next season and beyond.

“Of course, I hope he’s back. Will is one of the few players on our roster … that has been here every day that I’ve been here. And, obviously, you look at this six-year progression, what we have been able to accomplish, Will Barton’s definitely a big part of that,” Malone said in his season’s end press conference.

The 30-year-old wing has until July 17 to decide on whether to pick up his $14.67 million player option for next season or head into free agency this offseason.

After the final game of the season, Barton told the media all he wants is to “be appreciated … being in a winning environment, a chance to win, just to be myself, play my game.”

“Ultimately, obviously, Will Barton will have to do whatever is best for him and his family,” Malone said, adding he’s meant a lot to the team and him personally.

“Me, personally, I hope he’s back here for a long time.”

After being drafted in the second round by the Trail Blazers in 2012, Barton landed in Denver via the trade that sent Arron Afflalo to Portland in February 2015.

That August, Barton re-signed with the Nuggets and did so again in 2018.

In six-plus seasons for the Nuggets, Barton has played in 408 games, including 208 starts, averaging 30.1 minutes, 13.9 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game.

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