"Lonnie Walker is an elite scorer, his signing is a steal for Denver"

Lonnie Walker has returned to the NBA, and despite an inconsistent stint at Maccabi Tel Aviv, he is already receiving praise. The American website TWSN defined the signing of the former Maccabi Tel Aviv player by the Denver Nuggets as a "steal," claiming that the team acquired a quality scorer at an exceptionally low price.

Walker, who signed for one season for $3.3 million, arrives after a season in the EuroLeague with the "yellows," where he averaged 15.2 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. TWSN emphasized that despite the season in Europe, he is still only 27 years old and is at a stage where he should have much more to give.

The site claimed that one of Denver's main problems heading into the season is the ability to generate points from the bench, especially in the minutes when Nikola Jokic is resting:

"Walker gives the Nuggets an elite scorer, who is capable of both creating for himself and playing off the ball."

It was further argued that playing alongside Jokic might improve his efficiency, as has happened in the past with other players who joined Denver.

However, as of now, there is still uncertainty surrounding his exact status. While Shams Charania reported a one-season contract, team beat writer Bennett Durando claimed that it is a training camp-only signing. This means it is still unclear whether Walker is already considered a guaranteed part of the rotation or if he will have to fight for his spot during the preparation.

This doubt has raised quite a few questions in the US. The "Nugglove" blog wondered why Walker would give up a guaranteed contract overseas if he hadn't received at least an indication that he has a real chance to remain on the roster. They also raised the possibility that he is serving as a backup plan in case Denver makes another trade and clears space on the roster and salary cap.

Walker finished a stint this summer at Maccabi Tel Aviv, which was full of ups and downs. On one hand, he showed high-level offensive ability at times, but on the other hand, he finished the season outside of Oded Kattash's rotation and did not participate at all in the playoff final series against Hapoel Tel Aviv.

Now, whether his place is guaranteed or he still has to earn it in training camp, there are already those in the US who believe that Denver has found a player who can give them much more than the salary for which they signed him.