The Nuggets are facing uncertainty regarding their backup center position after trading for Jonas Valanciunas, who is reportedly considering a lucrative offer from Greek club Panathinaikos. Valanciunas has a $10.4 million contract with the NBA for the next season, complicating his potential departure.
The Nuggets traded Dario Saric to create cap space for Dennis Schroeder and are optimistic about addressing Nikola Jokic’s bench minutes. However, they’re aware of the challenges in keeping Valanciunas, especially with limited free-agent centers available and his strong interest in Europe.
Valanciunas’s trade won’t be finalized until Sunday, leaving his future uncertain. The Nuggets could attempt to negotiate terms that might retain him, but if they push for his departure, it could result in dead cap space for them. The situation remains fluid, with the team holding the leverage, but Valanciunas’s motivations—whether financial or personal—will play a crucial role moving forward.
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