Jonas Valančiūnas, who recently inked a three-year deal with the Washington Wizards, might not stay put for long. Reports indicate that the Wizards could look to trade him soon after he becomes eligible in December.
According to Sean Deveney from Heavy.com, “The Wizards made a smart move by securing him on a three-year, $30 million contract.” The expectation is that they’ll explore trade options for Valančiūnas starting in December, setting the stage for potential competition among suitors.
His bargain deal makes him an attractive option for many teams in need of a reliable big man. Notable contenders could include the Los Angeles Lakers, New York Knicks, and Golden State Warriors.
“The Knicks will have to evaluate their center situation,” a source told Heavy Sports recently, while also naming the Lakers and Warriors as possible players for Valančiūnas’s services. “The Warriors may be interested if their (Lauri) Markkanen plans fall through.”
Last season with the New Orleans Pelicans, Valančiūnas averaged 12.2 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, shooting 55.9% from the field. Although his 3-point percentage dipped to 30.8%, which is his lowest since the 2018-19 season, he remains a sought-after asset.
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The Lakers, in particular, may be intent on acquiring Valančiūnas to strengthen their frontcourt alongside Anthony Davis. They could use D’Angelo Russell’s expiring contract as a trade chip, potentially striking a deal that benefits both sides.
Similarly, the Knicks could see Valančiūnas as a valuable addition following the departure of Isaiah Hartenstein in free agency. After finishing as the No. 2 seed in the East last season, New York aims to make a deeper playoff run this year.
As it stands, Valančiūnas will kick off the season with the Wizards, but it seems likely he’ll find himself playing for a new team by the trade deadline.
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