Nuggets Land Center Jonas Valanciunas: What This Means for Denver

By Edcel Panganiban August 04, 2025 12:56

The Denver Nuggets made a notable trade in July 2025, acquiring veteran center Jonas Valanciunas from the Sacramento Kings in exchange for forward Dario Šarić. This move aims to fortify the Nuggets' frontcourt depth and provide a reliable low-post presence alongside superstar Nikola Jokić as Denver looks to remain a championship contender in the fiercely competitive Western Conference.

Valanciunas, a 33-year-old Lithuanian big man standing 6-foot-11, brings a return to traditional center play with strong rebounding, interior scoring, and toughness. Last season split between the Washington Wizards and Sacramento Kings, he averaged a solid 10.4 points and 7.7 rebounds in 81 games, showcasing efficient scoring mostly through post moves and offensive rebounds. Known for his ability to score in traffic and clean the glass, Valanciunas provides Denver with a player who can relieve minutes from Jokić, who logged a career-high 36.7 minutes per game in 2024-25. The goal is to keep the MVP fresh and maintain high performance deep into the season and playoffs.

The Nuggets’ front office, led by Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations Ben Tenzer, has expressed full confidence in Valanciunas’ commitment. Despite reports of the center considering a lucrative offer from Greek powerhouse Panathinaikos, Valanciunas publicly affirmed he is dedicated to honoring his contract and contributing to Denver’s pursuit of an NBA title this upcoming season. "The idea of playing closer to home was exciting, but that will have to wait. I am fully committed to honoring my contract with the Nuggets this season and will give it my all to compete for a championship," he told BasketNews.com. Tenzer reinforced, “There’s been nothing but healthy conversations with Jonas and excitement for him to be a Nugget. We have no concerns about his commitment.”

Strategically, Valanciunas adds veteran size and a physical interior element that Denver’s roster has lacked. His presence complements the Nuggets’ evolving style, which balances Jokić’s unique playmaking skills with a need for defensive toughness and rebounding support. Denver’s ability to stagger Jokić’s minutes with a competent backup helps manage fatigue and risk of injury in a season where depth is crucial.

Contract-wise, Valanciunas is entering the final guaranteed year of a deal worth approximately $10.4 million, with a non-guaranteed $10 million team option for the 2026-27 season. This financial structure offers Denver flexibility going forward while securing quality frontcourt minutes immediately. The trade was seen as a cap-friendly move that fits the Nuggets’ goal of sustaining a championship window by improving depth without sacrificing significant assets; they parted ways with Šarić, who had an expiring contract and a lower salary, which made the trade financially prudent as well.

On a personal level, Valanciunas has already connected with Jokić and the team, reinforcing chemistry and locker room cohesion. Reports note positive conversations between Valanciunas and Nuggets star Nikola Jokić after the trade, indicating the two big men could form an effective on-court tandem.

In summary, the acquisition of Jonas Valanciunas signifies the Denver Nuggets’ commitment to maintaining a balanced roster that supports their MVP centerpiece with reliable backup minutes, physicality, and interior scoring. With Valanciunas under contract, Denver gains a proven veteran who can provide quality minutes, rebounding prowess, and toughness key components as the franchise looks to advance deeper into the playoffs and contend for another NBA championship.