Wizards Weigh Trade Options for Jonas Valančiūnas Ahead of Deadline

WASHINGTON — The Washington Wizards are considering trading veteran center Jonas Valančiūnas ahead of the NBA’s Feb. 6 trade deadline, according to league sources. The team, however, is not looking to simply offload the 32-year-old Lithuanian big man but is instead seeking a deal that could significantly advance their rebuilding efforts.

Valančiūnas, who signed a three-year, $30.3 million contract with the Wizards in July, has been a steady presence for the team this season. Averaging 11.7 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 2.2 assists in a career-low 19.9 minutes per game, he has provided veteran leadership and physicality for a young roster. His role has been crucial in mentoring rookies like Alex Sarr and protecting them from more physical matchups.

Despite his contributions, the Wizards are open to trading Valančiūnas if the right offer comes along. The team is reportedly seeking draft assets that could accelerate their rebuild, with a preference for early second-round picks or even a first-round pick if the deal involves taking on a burdensome contract. “The Wizards will be seeking the right kind of offer for Valančiūnas, which means one that could appreciably move their rebuild forward,” said sources close to the situation.

Valančiūnas’ contract, which includes a $9.9 million cap hit this season and a $10.4 million guaranteed salary for 2025-26, is not considered a bargain but also not overly burdensome. His $10 million salary for 2026-27 is non-guaranteed, adding flexibility for potential trade partners. However, his limitations—such as lack of floor spacing and rim protection—may limit his market value. “I’m a little skeptical that Valančiūnas will have a ton of value on the trade market,” one league source noted.

Teams like the Los Angeles Lakers and New York Knicks have been mentioned as potential suitors, though it remains unclear if they are actively pursuing him. The Wizards’ front office has shown patience in the past, retaining veteran guard Tyus Jones through last year’s deadline before he departed in free agency. A similar approach could be taken with Valančiūnas if the right deal doesn’t materialize.

For his part, Valančiūnas has remained professional amid the trade rumors. “I just come in every day, work,” he said. “Every game, I play 100 percent. That’s all I can do. That’s all I do. It’s above me. I have no control in that.” He also joked about turning off his phone as the deadline approaches, acknowledging the uncertainty that comes with the business side of the NBA.

If traded, Valančiūnas could provide depth for a contending team, particularly one in need of interior scoring and rebounding. However, his defensive limitations and lack of versatility may deter some suitors. The Wizards, meanwhile, would look to fill his role with players like Richaun Holmes, who has shown flashes of productivity in limited minutes.

As the deadline approaches, the Wizards’ decision on Valančiūnas will be a key indicator of their commitment to a long-term rebuild. Whether they move him for future assets or retain him as a mentor for their young core, the outcome will shape the team’s trajectory in the coming years.