What happened: Jonas Valanciunas could become a financial casualty in Denver, with his $10 million contract set to become fully guaranteed on July 8. The deal currently carries $2 million in protection, meaning the Nuggets would owe that amount if they move on before the deadline. Denver holds a narrow window to decide whether to keep the veteran center or clear the salary.

Why it matters: The decision speaks to Denver's cost management as it shapes its roster for the 2026-27 season. Carrying the full $10 million versus eating $2 million in protection is a meaningful swing for a team balancing its books, and it echoes the flexibility the front office has been preserving on Valanciunas ahead of the guarantee date. How Denver resolves it will signal how aggressively it intends to reshape its frontcourt depth.

What to watch: Watch the July 8 guarantee date, which forces Denver's hand on whether to retain Valanciunas or absorb the $2 million and pursue alternatives.