Tskitishvili Wants to be Traded

<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">Timberwolves forward Nikoloz Tskitishvili said Thursday that he wants to be traded.

Tskitishvili hasn't played through 17 games this season. With Troy Hudson out because of a knee injury, Tskitishvili was active Wednesday night during an 84-74 victory at Portland. But Tskitishvili, a 22-year-old 7-footer, was frustrated he did not play.

"This is not my rookie year," he said. "You don't bring me here just to sit on the bench. This is not why I came here. I thought this was going to be a good opportunity for me. I hope it's not going to continue like this. I'm looking forward to moving on as soon as I can."

Tskitishvili said he's happy his teammates are playing well but at this point in his NBA career ? his fourth season ? he wants to play. He doesn't see room in the rotation at forward.

Eddie Griffin has played a key role off the bench with his shot blocking and rebounding. That has limited chances for Tskitishvili. The Wolves are atop the NBA's Northwest Division, which means the team is unlikely to shake up the rotation.

"I don't think they bring you in and sit down Eddie Griffin because Griffin is doing really well," Tskitishvili said.

The Denver Nuggets drafted Tskitishvili fifth overall in 2002. He played in 35 games last season, which he began with Denver before being traded to Golden State.

This summer, he signed a two-year contract with the Wolves, who had concerns about Griffin's legal issues. The team holds the option for the second year of Tskitishvili's deal. Per league rules, free agents acquired this summer can't be traded until Dec. 15.

"I understand they're playing really well, but I'm tired," he said. "This is my fourth year. This is a little bit disrespect. You've got to give me a little chance, better than this."

Tskitishvili said he would be open to remaining with the Wolves if he can get playing time. He said he believes he has earned it with his performance in exhibition games and practice.

Tskitishvili's agent, Ara Vartanian, said his client appreciates the opportunity the organization gave him, but a trade seems best for all parties.

"Not having playing time this far into the season, it may make sense for the Timberwolves and Skita to look at other options," Vartanian said. "Skita's a young, healthy player, and it would be unfortunate for his skills to lay dormant on the bench the entire season."</div>

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You have to love it when an NBA scrub demands a trade.