Washington Wizards center Jonas Valančiūnas is estimated to be one of the most sought-after players heading into the NBA trade deadline. It is a matter of time until the Valančiūnas commercial market heats up significantly.
Most of the competitors are paralyzed by CBA. The Denver Nuggets, Dallas Mavericks, Golden State Warriors, and many others are firmly entrenched in the first or second arena.
Playground II teams face additional restrictions by pooling player salaries in trades and getting back more money than they sent. It's easy to get excited about potential deals for Jimmy Butler, Zach LaVine and other stars, but such packages are nearly impossible to create under this CBA.
Mid-tier players like Valančiūnas will likely move on.
Currently playing for the Wizards in their rebuilding phase, Valančiūnas has taken on a leadership role. He's started just six games so far this season, and is averaging the fewest minutes of his career.
Speaking to RG, Valančiūnas talked about what made him such an influential player in the NBA for over a decade.
“For me, it's about being consistent and present, taking care of my body, and doing the little things. That's what has kept me here.”
Unfazed by coming off the bench, the former Toronto Raptor spoke highly of second overall pick Alexandre Sarr.
“Every time he steps on the field, he gains experience.
“Right now, experience is key for him, every minute he plays will help him grow. He works hard, the sky is the limit.”
Potential deals
Magicians are in no hurry to move their bruising center. Valančiūnas is a big body capable of taking on the big guys in the league. His presence in the locker room has already proven invaluable on a young roster, which includes Sarr, Bilal Koulibaly, Keshaun George, Carlton Carrington and former lottery pick Johnny Davis.
The Los Angeles Lakers have been repeatedly mentioned as suitors for Valančiūnas. Gabe Vincent could be used as a salary matchup, but the Wiz would certainly want at least one second-round pick in return. Will the Lakers' 2025 second round pick be enough to get the deal done?
Jusuf Nurkic's struggles would make the Phoenix Suns a perfect fit. But Phoenix has too limited assets to entice Washington to acquire Nurkic's contract.
Can the Sacramento Kings reach a deal with Trey Lyles? Any other configuration is a tall order for a team above the apron. Valančiūnas will certainly be a useful part of the Kings' bench, but their record needs to improve before they can make a win-now move.
Valančiūnas is not the most glamorous trade candidate. His size and old-school scoring could be valuable to the right team, however, the limitations of many franchises mean he could be one of the most important pieces in a move.
