NBA Moves: Nuggets, Spencer Jones, Celtics, Dalano Banton, Sixers

Nuggets

The Nuggets have officially converted Spencer Jones from a two-way deal to a standard contract for the remainder of the season, per the NBA transaction log.

The move had been expected. With injuries thinning Denver’s rotation throughout the year, Jones became a regular, starting 34 games and averaging 23.6 minutes. The production has been modest, but the efficiency has mattered.

He is shooting over 50 percent from the field and better than 41 percent from three, while providing steady wing defense.

Jones missed the final three games before the All-Star break due to a concussion, which delayed the promotion. Denver also had limited financial flexibility, operating roughly $1.8 million below the luxury tax, which restricted its ability to offer a multiyear deal, as Bobby Marks of ESPN noted.

Jones will be eligible for restricted free agency at season’s end. If he makes seven more starts, he would qualify for a $5.9 million tender, something to watch for a tax-conscious Nuggets team.

Celtics

The Celtics are filling one of their roster openings by signing Dalano Banton to a 10-day contract, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.

Banton, 26, has appeared in 218 NBA games and spent time with Boston during the 2023–24 season. He has been playing in the G League and recently completed a 10-day stint with the Clippers.

Boston must reach the league’s 14-man minimum and is expected to rely on short-term contracts to remain below the luxury tax. 

76ers

The 76ers have officially promoted Jabari Walker to their standard roster.

Walker reached the 50-game limit on his two-way deal earlier this month, forcing Philadelphia’s hand. The 23-year-old quickly earned a rotation role under coach Nick Nurse, providing energy and defensive versatility despite shooting struggles from deep.

Walker joins Cameron Payne in filling the Sixers’ final roster spots. According to Yossi Gozlan of The Third Apron, Philadelphia will remain under the tax with enough flexibility for a late-season move if needed.