After several weeks of speculation surrounding the camp of Jonas Valanciunas, it seems that the legend has finally come to the conclusion. The Lithuanian Center is reportedly expected to remain in Colorado, although the Denver organization has received a significant offer from Greek giant Panathinaikos.
NBA Insider Vic Lombardi recently reported that the veteran has finally reached a deal with the Nuggets’ franchise, especially if that means the Eurocentre has a second-year guarantee. “The Nuggets think he will play here and time will heal.”
Journalists revealed that he himself talked to Jonas about him potentially staying in Denver if he reached a better long-term deal. When asked, his answer was: “100% because that would give him stability.”
In a recent interview with BasketNews, the player himself has learned more about his future. “Once the deal is completed, we will summarize plans for a trip to Denver. The team will outline how they view the situation, health care and all the details. It depends in part on them,” he opens to the media.
During the show, Lombardy did not even mention the name of the Europa League team interested in Valancunas service. As for the Nuggets, they reportedly told the 33-year-old that they hoped he would fulfill his contract as he was considered an ideal backup for teammate Nikola Jokic.
Sources said Panathinaikos offered the Lithuanian star a high price of 12 million euros, and he apparently landed in Athens last week to further discuss the deal and conduct medical tests with Greek organizations.
“What can you say. A lot of ideas have been said, all kinds of ideas. The bubble bursts and everyone shares everyone’s ideas. We’ll just figure out when to play the first game. Everything will be clear,” Jonas answered yesterday at the 2025 B8 summit held at Lithuania Vilnius.
