The Denver Nuggets are closing in on a trade for veteran center Jonas Valanciunas, as the team works to finalize the deal later this week, according to NBA insider Marc Stein.
Denver is acquiring Valanciunas from the Sacramento Kings in exchange for Dario Saric, giving the reigning Western Conference contenders a proven backup to Nikola Jokic.
While the trade remains “on course,” Stein noted that the Nuggets have not guaranteed the final year of Valanciunas’ contract, which runs through the 2026–27 season.
Valanciunas, 33, is guaranteed $10.4 million for the 2025–26 season, making him an affordable option for Denver’s second unit. However, his NBA future remains intertwined with a significant offer from Europe that is also on the table.
Over the weekend, Valanciunas met with Panathinaikos officials in Athens to discuss a three-year deal worth nearly €12 million. The EuroLeague club sees him as a potential centerpiece for its frontcourt as it chases the league title next season.
Panathinaikos finished third in the EuroLeague regular season and is seeking to overtake rival Olympiacos at the top. Their offer would give Valanciunas a leading role in Europe, compared to the reserve minutes he is expected to play behind Jokic in Denver.
Despite the strong European interest, Denver holds Valanciunas’ NBA rights following the trade and controls whether he remains in the league or is released to pursue opportunities overseas.
Valanciunas has spent 12 seasons in the NBA, averaging 13.1 points and 9.3 rebounds per game. Last year, he split time between the Washington Wizards and Kings, contributing 8.7 points and 7.0 rebounds in a bench role.
The Nuggets value his experience and interior presence as they aim to reinforce their roster for another deep postseason run. Panathinaikos, meanwhile, is waiting for Denver’s decision before making further moves on its roster.
