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Jonas Valanciunas’ contract, which pays him $10.4 million guaranteed for 2025/26 and includes a non-guaranteed $10 million for 2026/27, became a focal point of debate this summer.

Some assumed Denver would use their newly acquired asset as a sign-and-release candidate. But the Nuggets’ actions proved otherwise.

By declining to buy him out and finalizing the trade, Denver sent a message – they see Valanciunas as a key contributor, not just cap filler.

His own statement confirmed alignment between player and team: “Now that Denver has made their decision to keep me … I am fully committed.”

That level of commitment, both financial and personal, could be a major asset for the Nuggets as they chase another title.

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