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5h ago

Injury-Hit Nuggets Weigh Hardship Signing After Valanciunas Calf Strain

Denver expects Jonas Valanciunas to be reevaluated in four weeks after exiting the Toronto win, positioning the team to qualify for a 10-day signing as early as Jan. 5.

Dec 27, 2025; Orlando, Florida, USA; Denver Nuggets center Jonas Valanciunas (17) warms up before the game against the Orlando Magic at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike Watters-Imagn Images
DALLAS, TEXAS - DECEMBER 23: Jonas Valanciunas #17 of the Denver Nuggets handles the ball against the Dallas Mavericks during the game at American Airlines Center on December 23, 2025 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ron Jenkins/Getty Images)
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Jan 1, 2026; Dallas, Texas, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey (0) tries to knock the ball away from Dallas Mavericks guard Max Christie (00) during the first quarter at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Overview

  • With Nikola Jokic out at least four weeks due to a hyperextended left knee, Denver also lost Jonas Valanciunas to a right calf strain, leaving DaRon Holmes II and Zeke Nnaji to cover center minutes.
  • Only eight Nuggets saw action in a 106-103 victory at Toronto on Dec. 31, led by Peyton Watson’s 24 points and Jamal Murray’s 21.
  • Analyst Bobby Marks notes Denver could seek a 10-day hardship addition once the Jan. 5 window opens and Valanciunas has missed three games.
  • The Nuggets are 23-10 and the West’s No. 3 seed entering Friday’s game in Cleveland, with Murray listed as probable and several starters still sidelined.
  • Reflecting league-wide depth moves, the Raptors signed Mo Bamba to a non-guaranteed deal to supplement their center rotation.