Denver Nuggets head coach David Adelman spoke candidly about the team’s acquisition of Jonas Valanciunas, calling the veteran big man a critical addition to their roster following the completion of the trade with the Sacramento Kings.
The deal, which sent Dario Saric to Sacramento in exchange for Valanciunas, was officially finalized Sunday after initial reports emerged on July 1. Brief speculation over Valanciunas’ potential move to European club Panathinaikos briefly clouded his NBA future, but the Nuggets have since reaffirmed their expectations that he will play out his current contract in Denver.
Adelman outlined why the organization targeted the Lithuanian center, highlighting his versatility and ability to anchor the second unit when Nikola Jokić rests. “You can play through him,” Adelman said. “He’s a guy you can post up against smaller lineups, very good dribble handoff player, you can play him off the elbows. He’s a guy those guards can play through.”
Comparing Valanciunas to former Nuggets center DeMarcus Cousins, who had a productive stint as a backup in 2022, Adelman stressed the value of having a reliable big man in reserve. “When Jok doesn’t play, you have a legitimate starting center that we just happen to be lucky enough to have as our backup,” he added.
Last season with the Washington Wizards and Sacramento Kings, Valanciunas averaged 10.4 points and 7.7 rebounds per game while shooting 55.9% from the field. His ability to operate in the low post and facilitate from the high elbow positions him as an ideal complement to Denver’s guard-heavy second unit.
ESPN’s Bobby Marks noted that Valanciunas’ contract includes standard clauses prohibiting him from joining another professional team — including European clubs — without a mutual buyout agreement. For now, the Nuggets expect him to report and begin preparations for the upcoming season.
Adelman concluded his remarks by expressing enthusiasm about integrating Valanciunas into the group. “We’re super blessed to get him. Cannot wait for him to get to the United States — get to Denver. We’re so excited to have him,” he said.
