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Nuggets Release 14-Year Veteran Ahead of $10 Million Payday
On Wednesday, the Denver Nuggets waived veteran center Jonas Valanciunas, making the 34-year-old an unrestricted free agent and providing Denver with $8 million in salary cap relief.
Denver pursued trade options for Valanciunas' $10 million non-guaranteed salary but failed to find a partner, prompting the release before the guarantee deadline to limit dead cap to $2 million.
During his lone season, Valanciunas averaged 8.7 points and 5.1 rebounds in 65 games as Nikola Jokic's backup. The Nuggets signed Marvin Bagley III to a one-year deal to fill the center role.
Multiple NBA teams are expected to pursue the veteran, though reports suggest he previously considered returning home to play for Zalgiris Kaunas in Lithuania. His next destination remains uncertain.
Waiving the center leaves Denver about $6 million below the second apron with five open roster spots. The team may also move off Zeke Nnaji and his $7 million salary to create further financial maneuverability.