Knicks
The Knicks may have another veteran center on their radar.
According to James L. Edwards III of The Athletic, Jonas Valanciunas is among the names New York is monitoring as it looks to replace Mitchell Robinson in the middle.
Valanciunas remains under contract with the Nuggets, though Denver must decide by next Wednesday whether to guarantee the remaining $8 million on his deal. Around the league, the expectation has been that the Nuggets will move on.
The Lakers have also been linked to Valanciunas as they continue searching for a backup behind newly acquired Walker Kessler, meaning New York could have company if the veteran big man reaches free agency.
Raptors
Toronto’s work may not be finished after bringing Kawhi Leonard back north of the border.
According to Blake Murphy of Sportsnet, the Raptors’ financial flexibility will largely depend on what Leonard decides to do with his trade bonus once the blockbuster deal becomes official.
If Leonard agrees to reduce or waive part of that bonus, Toronto would gain additional breathing room beneath what is expected to be a first-apron hard cap, giving the front office more flexibility to round out the roster.
Bucks
Kasparas Jakucionis technically isn’t a Buck yet.
The Giannis Antetokounmpo trade with Miami can’t become official until Monday, but Milwaukee is already acting as though the talented young guard is part of its future.
According to BasketNews, new coach Taylor Jenkins and assistant general manager Milt Newton are expected to travel to Italy this weekend to watch Jakucionis, who is representing Lithuania during 2027 FIBA World Cup qualifying.
The 2025 first-round pick impressed in Lithuania’s win over Great Britain, finishing with 16 points, seven rebounds and six assists.
MORE HOOPS | NBA free agents by position
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