Denver Nuggets head coach David Adelman shared his vision for Jonas Valanciunas as the team nears completion of a trade to acquire the veteran center from the Sacramento Kings.
Speaking to reporters, Adelman described Valanciunas as a “point center,” highlighting his ability to play in a five-out offense, operate from the elbow, and facilitate alongside combo guards without relying on a traditional point guard.
“Point center. You can play combo guards, you don’t need a lead PG, you can play 5-out offense, off the elbow, post him up. He’s such a skilled player,” Adelman said, per Jake Shapiro.
According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Nuggets are expected to finalize the deal this week, sending Dario Saric to Sacramento in exchange for Valanciunas. The 33-year-old will provide Denver with a reliable backup for Nikola Jokic, addressing a need for depth in the frontcourt.
Adelman praised the Lithuanian big man’s skillset, noting that it’s the first time since DeMarcus Cousins that Denver has had a backup with similar offensive versatility to Jokic.
Valanciunas remains under contract through the 2025–26 season at $10.4 million, though the Nuggets have not guaranteed his 2026–27 salary yet.
His NBA future also faces competition from Europe, where Panathinaikos has extended a lucrative three-year offer worth approximately €12 million.
Over the weekend, Valanciunas traveled to Athens to meet with Panathinaikos officials, who view him as a potential anchor for their frontcourt in their bid to challenge Olympiacos for EuroLeague supremacy.
Despite the European interest, Denver retains his NBA rights following the trade, giving the franchise control over whether he remains in the league or pursues the opportunity overseas.
Valanciunas, a 12-year NBA veteran, averaged 8.7 points and 7.0 rebounds last season in stints with Washington and Sacramento, playing primarily off the bench.
