The Denver Nuggets’ decision to acquire veteran center Jonas Valanciunas last July drew significant attention across the NBA. Positioned as the primary backup to Nikola Jokić, Valanciunas represented a calculated move to add experienced depth behind one of the league’s most dominant players. However, new reporting suggests that chapter may be nearing an abrupt end.
According to the Denver Post, it is now a “pretty much foregone conclusion” that Valanciunas will not return to Denver for the 2026-27 season. While the 10-year veteran is technically on the books for $10 million next year, only $2 million of that salary is guaranteed. The Nuggets have already committed to that portion, but the writing appears to be on the wall regarding his future with the franchise.
Valanciunas originally considered leaving the NBA entirely after his stint with the Sacramento Kings. He was in serious discussions with the Greek powerhouse Panathinaikos, reportedly on the verge of signing a lucrative multi-year deal overseas. Denver ultimately convinced him to stay stateside with the promise of a competitive roster and a meaningful role. He earned $10.3 million for his efforts in 2025-26.
In his lone season with the Nuggets, Valanciunas appeared in 65 games, posting solid but unspectacular numbers: 8.7 points per game on 58.2% field goal shooting, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.2 assists. While he provided steady veteran presence, the Nuggets’ postseason exit — a first-round loss in six games despite finishing third in the Western Conference — fell short of expectations.
The limited guarantee on his 2026-27 contract now gives Denver significant flexibility. With the team likely looking to reshape its supporting cast around Jokić, parting ways with Valanciunas could open up roster spots or financial resources for more dynamic options.
For Valanciunas, this development raises questions about the next stage of his career. A return to Europe remains a realistic possibility, especially given his prior interest from Panathinaikos. At the same time, his resume — more than 1,000 NBA games played across stops with the Toronto Raptors, Memphis Grizzlies, New Orleans Pelicans, Washington Wizards, Sacramento Kings, and now the Nuggets — could still attract interest from contending teams seeking veteran depth. Some speculation has even linked him as a potential target for squads like the New York Knicks.
The Nuggets’ front office now faces a pivotal offseason question: how best to fortify the center position behind Jokić for another legitimate title push. Valanciunas’ impending departure marks the likely conclusion of a short-term experiment that provided stability but ultimately did not elevate the team as hoped in the playoffs.
As the new league year approaches, all eyes will be on Denver to see how they address the Jokić backup situation — and whether Valanciunas will get one final opportunity to extend his NBA career elsewhere or begin a new chapter overseas.