Vlatko Cancar has committed his future to the Denver Nuggets by signing a new multi-year contract, as confirmed by General Manager Calvin Booth. The 27-year-old Slovenian forward, standing at 203 cm and weighing 107 kg, has been a consistent presence with the Nuggets over the past four seasons, despite some setbacks.
Cancar’s career with Denver has seen him participate in 130 games, including 11 starts, where he has averaged 3.5 points and 1.7 rebounds per game in approximately 10.7 minutes on the court. Notably, he contributed to the Nuggets’ NBA Championship victory in 2023, showcasing his versatility and commitment to the team’s success.
However, Cancar faced adversity during the 2023-24 season when he underwent left knee surgery, forcing him to sit out the entire campaign. His return to competitive basketball occurred during this year’s FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament, where he represented Slovenia. Across three games, Cancar played an average of 22.1 minutes per game, contributing 4.7 points and 2.7 rebounds per game.
Before joining the NBA, Cancar honed his skills in Europe, notably playing for San Pablo Burgos in Spain’s ACB league during the 2018-19 season. There, he made an impact by averaging 10.0 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game in 34 appearances, 22 of which were starts. His performance earned him recognition as a member of the Spanish ACB Best Young Team, highlighting his potential and talent.
Prior to his stint in Spain, Cancar played multiple seasons for KK Mega Bemax in the Adriatic League, where he was named the MVP of Round 18 during the 2017-18 season. His achievements in Europe underscore his development as a player before making the leap to the NBA.
Cancar’s journey to the NBA began when he was selected by the Denver Nuggets as the 49th overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, marking a pivotal moment in his career trajectory.
With his new contract, Cancar looks forward to continuing his contributions to the Denver Nuggets, bringing both his on-court skills and championship experience to the team. The extension signifies the Nuggets’ confidence in his abilities and potential to grow further as a player.
In conclusion, Vlatko Cancar’s decision to remain with the Denver Nuggets solidifies his position as a key player in the team’s roster. His resilience through injury and dedication to his craft highlight his commitment to basketball excellence, both domestically in the NBA and internationally with the Slovenian national team. As he progresses in his career, Cancar remains a promising figure in the sport, poised to make significant contributions on and off the court for years to come.
