Dušan Alimpijević lands Nikola Jokić's teammate: Blockbuster move in Istanbul as Bešiktaš secure marquee signing
The news was first reported by Greek journalist Sotiris Vetakis of Betarades, though the length and financial terms of the deal have not yet been disclosed.
From Jokić's Denver bench to Bešiktaš
Lonnie Walker joined Nikola Jokić and the Denver Nuggets over the summer on an Exhibit 9 deal, hoping to secure a spot on the final regular-season roster. However, facing stiff competition in a crowded backcourt, Denver's front office opted to waive him after just three preseason games. The American guard played only 17 minutes across two appearances, totaling four points.
Following his release by the 2023 NBA champions, Walker signed with top European agent Miodrag "Miško" Ražnatović, paving the way for a swift return to European basketball.
A marquee signing for Alimpijević's squad
Walker's arrival is a massive boost for Bešiktaš as they look to steady their form and find a winning rhythm after a slow, inconsistent 2-3 start to the European campaign.
The Turkish side suffered a heavy defeat against Hapoel on Wednesday night.
European basketball fans will well remember Walker's scoring prowess from his time with Maccabi Tel Aviv. The American guard was one of the EuroLeague's most potent offensive weapons off the bench, averaging 15.2 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 2.2 assists across 45 appearances while shooting an impressive 40% from beyond the arc.
Walker was heavily linked with a move to Partizan over the summer, but he will now be suiting up for Istanbul's Black and Whites instead.
There is no doubt Walker adds serious firepower to the squad, though Bešiktaš will also need to adapt to a high-usage player who demands the ball in his hands.