William Phillips, Bonzi Wells' agent, said Wednesday he has had discussions with the Nuggets this week about the free agent shooting guard. Wells recently rejected a deal to return to Sacramento at a starting salary of about $6 million.

"It's just as strong as from the beginning (of free agency)," Phillips said of the Nuggets' interest in Wells. "We're focusing on a sign- and-trade."

Wells made $8 million last season. After he turned down the Kings' offer starting at $6 million, Sacramento last week signed guard John Salmons, all but ruling out Wells' return to the team.

"We just didn't get to the number (Wells wanted)," said Phillips, not offering details. "I believe we can still get to that number."

The Rocky Mountain News believes that considering the Nuggets are concerned with the luxury tax, a deal appears unlikely.

The Nuggets have the $5.2 million midlevel exception, which is less than what Wells rejected. The Nuggets are being cautious because they are $3 million from the luxury tax.