Focus on a potential valuation of Jonas Valančiūnas has intensified as the market shifts. Reports have suggested that Valančiūnas could become a target for the Knicks if Denver Nuggets decide to waive him following their acquisition of Marvin Bagley III. New York had already secured Drummond, but interest in Valančiūnas remains, particularly as a potential third center behind a formidable core that includes Karl-Anthony Towns and Drummond. The depth this would provide could give the Knicks a strong frontcourt option off the bench, adding veteran scoring, rebounding, and physicality.
Valančiūnas, 33, had solid but limited usage last season with the Nuggets, posting averages of 8.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.2 assists across 65 regular-season games, with about 13.4 minutes per game. His role diminished in the playoffs, where he averaged around 6.3 minutes over four games against a tough opponent. Nevertheless, he remains one of the league’s most experienced interior players, capable of contributing meaningful minutes as a reliable veteran presence in the frontcourt.
Before the Drummond signing, there was already chatter about Valančiūnas as a potential option for the Knicks if Denver moved on from him after adding Bagley. Once Drummond was secured, New York’s interest did not dissipate; instead, Valančiūnas was identified as a possible third center behind Towns and Drummond. This development would give the Knicks considerable frontcourt depth if they decide to pursue an additional veteran big.
The Lakers, meanwhile, still face a meaningful decision in their own right. With Walker Kessler established as the starting center after his acquisition from Utah, the Lakers have a clear opening for a veteran backup who can contribute substantial minutes on a nightly basis. The Knicks’ depth chart, by contrast, would place Valančiūnas behind Towns and Drummond, potentially limiting his role at a critical stage of the season. For a veteran still capable of contributing on a competitive team, the allure of becoming the Lakers’ primary backup center could be more appealing than serving as a third option in New York.
The Lakers’ front office has been active in reshaping the roster to fit a new era around a franchise centerpiece. In addition to pursuing a veteran backup at center, the organization has added younger pieces to round out the rotation and support a more dynamic lineup around the star. However, securing an experienced big remains a priority to ensure depth and versatility in the frontcourt, particularly as the team looks to maximize its win-now window.
As the center market evolves, the Lakers’ ability to land a veteran with the right fit will hinge on several factors: playing time opportunities, alignment with the team’s system, and the perceived role on a team that is balancing immediate competitiveness with long-term development. Valančiūnas’ combination of size, experience, and scoring ability off the bench positions him as one of the most logical targets, should he become available. For New York, bringing in a veteran big could also enhance frontcourt options, especially if Towns and Drummond form a potent starting lineup while Valančiūnas provides reliable depth.
Ultimately, the race for a veteran backup center in this offseason contest will shape how both teams approach the remainder of free agency and the early portion of the season. The Lakers’ decision will reflect a priority on strengthening interior depth, while the Knicks will weigh whether to continue adding veteran versatility to support their core. As teams assess their options, the next moves will be watched closely by fans and analysts alike, with the potential to influence how each club navigates the early months of the season and the pursuit of meaningful postseason depth.
