Wilson Chandler, Nuggets Agree on New Contract: Latest Details and Reaction

The Denver Nuggets announced Saturday that they have agreed to terms with forward Wilson Chandler on a contract extension.

Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo Sports reports Chandler's deal is worth $46 million over four years. The 28-year-old has been with Denver—save for a brief stint in China—since being traded in 2011 by the New York Knicks, who drafted Chandler 23rd overall in the 2007 NBA draft.

Chandler took to Instagram on July 13 to explain why he decided to sign an extension with the Nuggets: 

"

I make all my decisions based on what will make me happier in life. That should say everything in regards to why I chose to resign with Denver for the next 4 years. Of course I could of played out my current deal and tested the waters next year when the TV money will sky rocket the salary cap. However Life is bigger then that. While the nuggets organization was very generous and I'm extremely happy with the new deal, I made this decision because of the city of Denver, the Nuggets fans, and my teammates. I tasted what it was like to win in this great city, and I've never been more focused to recapture that feeling. It will take a lot of hard work and commitment from top to bottom but I know we can do it, and I'm ready to lead the charge. It's going to be a great ride and I wish the season could start tomorrow. To the ownership and management I say thank you! To the fans I say an extra thank you for they are the real reason I'm staying here for the long haul. Nugget nation let's come together and turn this around!

"

Chandler is a uniquely skilled forward with tremendous athleticism and shooting range. Synergy Sports Tech alluded to one way Chandler can be a dynamic offensive threat:

ESPN's Marc Stein had reported in February that the Nuggets were seeking two first-round picks in exchange for Chandler in a possible trade. Now the organization appears fully committed to Chandler for the long haul.

Sam Vecenie of CBSSports.com feels Chandler deserved the lucrative payday:

The Nuggets were also finalizing to a three-year deal worth $11 million for guard Will Barton on Saturday, per Northeast Ohio Media Group's Chris Haynes. They're evidently moving forward with purpose to secure several key pieces for the future.

An exciting draft night saw Denver take Emmanuel Mudiay in the lottery. Mudiay figures to create opportunities for Chandler to capitalize on his skill set.

If the Nuggets can buy in more under Michael Malone than they did under previous full-time head coach Brian Shaw, Chandler's versatility can be used better on the defensive end too.

Chandler emerged as a full-time starter for Denver in 2014-15, netting 13.9 points and 6.1 rebounds per contest. His spot in the starting five has to be secure with this new contract, and his presence keeps the roster well stocked on the wing.