Overview
- Multiple reports say Jonas Valančiūnas is highly likely to depart the Nuggets this summer, with a move to Europe seen as a strong possibility.
- The Nuggets have already locked in $2 million of his 2026–27 salary, which totals about $10 million if he stays on the roster.
- Team officials are evaluating two paths to a split, either trading his contract at the likely cost of draft capital or terminating the deal and taking the financial hit.
- European clubs are monitoring his status after a strong bid from Panathinaikos last offseason, which could offer a bigger role closer to his homeland.
- Valančiūnas, acquired last summer to back up Nikola Jokić, played 65 games this season and averaged 8.7 points and 5.1 rebounds on 58.2% shooting.