David Adelman praised the recent acquisition of Jonas Valanciunas via trade from the Sacramento Kings, emphasizing the Lithuanian center‘s important role in the Denver Nuggets’ strategy for the 2025-26 NBA season. Adelman described how Valanciunas will strengthen the team’s frontcourt depth and complement star center Nikola Jokic.
Adelman Explains Valanciunas’ Role and Fit Within the Team
Adelman noted the Nuggets aimed to add players who fit well rather than just familiar names, highlighting the thoughtfulness behind offseason moves.
“We added a backup big that we think can really complement our bench, and obviously complement Nikola [Jokic],”
he said. Adelman also reflected on the excitement among key players like Aaron Gordon and Jamal Murray regarding the new additions, stating,
“We feel like all these guys do complement the group that’s been here, the group that’s accomplished so much over all these years in Denver. And I can tell you right now just from my messaging with Aaron [Gordon], Jamal [Murray], Nikola [Jokic], those guys are excited.”
Valanciunas’ Skills and Impact on the Court
The Nuggets’ coach elaborated on Valanciunas’ versatility and skill set, comparing his impact to that of former player DeMarcus Cousins.
“I thought people forget how good DeMarcus Cousins was for us that second half of that season. Jonas is a guy you can post up against smaller lineups. He’s a proficient player down there, very good dribble handoff player, you can play him off the elbows. He’s a guy those guards can play through.”
Valanciunas provides the Nuggets with a scoring and playmaking option in the paint, capable of maintaining the team’s competitive level whenever Jokic is off the floor.
Valanciunas as a Reliable Backup Center
Adelman expressed confidence in Valanciunas filling the starting center role when needed, saying,
“And when Jok doesn’t play, you have a legitimate starting center that we just happen to be lucky enough to have as our backup. So we’re super blessed to get him.”
He also conveyed eagerness for Valanciunas to join the team in Denver, commenting,
“Cannot wait for him to get to the United States, get to Denver. We’re so excited to have him.”
Looking Ahead: Valanciunas’ Focus on EuroBasket and Future with Nuggets
Before joining the Nuggets roster in the 2025-26 season, Valanciunas is prioritizing his commitment to the Lithuanian national team for EuroBasket 2025. His participation there will likely impact his transition, but the Nuggets remain optimistic about his eventual impact as a key asset within their lineup. This strategic addition highlights Denver’s determination to deepen its roster and maintain a competitive edge in upcoming NBA seasons.