The Denver Nuggets’ decision to bring in veteran big man Jonas Valanciunas over the offseason has already paid off in several ways.
His presence has enabled Denver to ease the burden on Nikola Jokic, who is averaging 33.9 minutes per game this year after logging 36.7 minutes a night last season.
Valanciunas has also helped steady the team during the minutes when Jokic is off the floor.
Denver’s net rating without the three-time MVP has improved from -9.3 a year ago to -4.0 so far this season, a notable step forward for a bench unit that struggled at times.
Mark Medina of Essentially Sports spoke with Valanciunas about his early experience in Denver and also asked head coach David Adelman what the 33-year-old center has brought to the group.
Adelman praised Valanciunas’ impact on multiple levels, saying, “Attitude-wise, culture-wise, statistically, everything has been positive.”
He added that the veteran’s presence has been felt daily.
“He brings such a good energy every day with the team. I feel like there is a part of him that is just really enjoying being on a successful team. He can be an impact guy on that team and play really important games.”
Northwest Notes: McDaniels, Bailey, Valanciunas, Blazers https://t.co/9flcLXitq4 pic.twitter.com/9ZW5RKhf6K
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) November 14, 2025
