What happened: The New York Knicks and Los Angeles Lakers are linked to Jonas Valanciunas as the Denver Nuggets approach his July 8 guarantee deadline. Denver can trade him, retain him at $10 million or waive him with $2 million guaranteed.
Why it matters: A waiver would make Valanciunas accessible to New York, which has about $6.5 million available for two roster spots after adding Andre Drummond. Los Angeles also needs proven size, while a move to Europe remains possible.
By the numbers: Valanciunas averaged 8.7 points, 5.1 rebounds and 1.2 assists in 13.4 minutes across 65 games during the 2025-26 season, shooting 58.2% from the field.
What to watch: Watch whether Denver finds a trade before Wednesday or waives Valanciunas, opening negotiations with NBA and European teams.