Overview
- Reports say Valanciunas is widely expected to depart Denver after he confirmed he has been watching Zalgiris and talking with people who follow European basketball.
- The veteran holds a partially or non‑guaranteed $10 million salary for 2026–27, a structure that lets Denver trade him, waive him, or carry the contract until guarantees kick in.
- EuroLeague club Zalgiris has reportedly offered a guaranteed two‑year deal worth about €2 million per season and a prominent on‑court role close to the player’s Lithuanian home.
- Valanciunas served as Nikola Jokic’s backup last season but was sometimes taken off the floor in matchup-specific situations, a performance detail that factors into Denver’s roster evaluation.
- Denver must weigh this decision quickly as the team prepares for the NBA Draft, the opening of free agency, and early‑July guarantee deadlines, moves that will shape its salary flexibility and rotation.