Nuggets Delay Jonas Valanciunas’ Guarantee Date in Reworked Contract
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The Denver Nuggets and veteran center Jonas Valanciunas have amended the final season of his contract, giving the club additional time to decide on his future, according to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line.
The deal, which runs through the 2026-27 campaign, originally included a fully non-guaranteed $10 million salary for 2025-26 that would have become guaranteed if Valanciunas were not waived by June 29. Under the new terms, the guarantee deadline moves to July 8, and Valanciunas would now receive a $2 million partial guarantee if the Nuggets release him before that date.
The adjustment offers Denver a longer evaluation window and could enhance the 33-year-old’s appeal as a potential trade piece for teams aiming to reduce payroll next summer. Should the Nuggets guarantee the contract, Valanciunas would also become eligible for an extension during the offseason.
Fischer notes that the Lithuanian big man expressed interest in joining Greek club Panathinaikos last summer, but Denver declined a buyout after acquiring him to serve as Nikola Jokić’s primary backup. Consequently, the later guarantee date may have limited impact on Valanciunas if he ultimately chooses to finish his career overseas.
Through seven appearances this season, Valanciunas is averaging 8.3 points and 4.6 rebounds in 11.9 minutes per game for the defending champions.
Source: Hoops Rumors
