Jonas Valanciunas indicates move to Lithuania isn’t finalized

Jonas Valanciunas isn’t ready to say goodbye to the NBA just yet.

After reports out of Lithuania indicated the veteran center had agreed to a two-year deal with Zalgiris Kaunas, a follow-up report from BasketNews stated that while the sides have reached a preliminary agreement, Valanciunas still plans to evaluate his NBA options before making a final decision.

Valanciunas appeared to confirm as much with a lighthearted response on Instagram.

“You wake up and see that everything has been decided for you, don’t need to do anything myself,” he wrote. “Thank you, reporters.”

The 34-year-old became a free agent last week after the Nuggets waived him before his $10 million salary for next season became fully guaranteed.

Valanciunas averaged 8.7 points and 5.1 rebounds in 65 games as Nikola Jokic‘s primary backup last season, though his role diminished significantly during the playoffs.

Multiple NBA teams, including the Knicks and Lakers, were reportedly interested after he hit the market. Both clubs have since addressed their backup center spots, but Valanciunas could still have other opportunities if he decides to remain in the league.

A return to Europe has long been viewed as a possibility. Valanciunas reportedly attempted to leave the NBA for Panathinaikos last summer before that move fell through.

As for today, Valanciunas is apparently keeping his options open.

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