Free Agent Roundup: Porzingis Leaves Door Open, Yabusele Focused on NBA, Sharpe Awaits Nets Decision, Valanciunas Remains Professional
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Kristaps Porzingis stopped short of pledging his future to Golden State after Thursday’s loss to Cleveland, telling The Athletic he will weigh his options before free agency opens this summer. The 30-year-old center, eligible for an extension, can enter unrestricted free agency if a new contract is not signed beforehand.
Porzingis has logged only 29 games this season because of health setbacks and is averaging a career-low 24.0 minutes. “I didn’t have a good year at all,” he said. “I barely showed what I’m capable of. I have to see what’s out there.” While praising the Warriors’ roster, director of sports medicine Rick Celebrini and the organization’s support system, the Latvian big man acknowledged he is “working [his] way” back into shape and remains eager to eventually share the floor with Stephen Curry.
Yabusele Wants to Remain in the NBA
Forward/center Guerschon Yabusele, who declined a $5.8 million player option for 2026/27 in order to facilitate a trade to Chicago, said his “main goal is to stay in the NBA.” The Bulls appreciate the Frenchman’s work ethic and positivity, according to Chicago Sports Network. Yabusele, formerly with New York, added, “If that was Coach’s decision, that was coach’s decision. I worked hard and tried to be the best version of me. Nothing but love for New York.”
Sharpe Unsure of Nets’ Plan
Brooklyn holds a $6.25 million team option on center Day’Ron Sharpe for next season. The 24-year-old, rehabbing from season-ending thumb surgery, told The New York Post he does not know what the franchise intends to do. Head coach Jordi Fernández has praised Sharpe’s development, and the big man said he will focus on conditioning and expanding his range to the three-point line during the offseason.
Valanciunas Out of Rotation but “Staying Ready”
Nuggets center Jonas Valanciunas has recently fallen out of head coach David Adelman’s regular lineup, yet Adelman called the veteran “as professional as you can be.” Only $2 million of Valanciunas’s $10 million 2026/27 salary is guaranteed, and the Lithuanian was linked to EuroLeague club Panathinaikos last summer. “As long as we’re winning, I’m here if you need me,” Valanciunas told The Denver Post.
Source: Hoops Rumors
