After falling short of expectations last 2024-25 season, the Denver Nuggets wasted no time reshaping their roster. Along with the coaching change, the front office moved on from Dario Saric, trading him to the Sacramento Kings. In return, Denver landed veteran center Jonas Valanciunas, an interior presence they have been targeting to bolster their frontcourt next to Nikola Jokic.
With the new addition, head coach David Adelman has options. He could roll out a formidable double-big starting five featuring Valanciunas alongside Nikola Jokic, Christian Braun, Cam Johnson, and Jamal Murray. Alternatively, Valanciunas may anchor the second unit, allowing Aaron Gordon to reclaim a starting role.
Considering the latter, the starting lineup could look as follows:
- Point guard: Jamal Murray
- Shooting Guard: Christian Braun
- Small Forward: Cam Johnson
- Power Forward/Center: Jonas Valanciunas
- Center: Nikola Jokic.
Jonas Valanciunas #17 of the Sacramento Kings smiles after making a basket in the fourth quarter against the Phoenix Suns at Golden 1 Center on April 13, 2025 in Sacramento, California.
The addition of Jonas Valanciunas gives head coach David Adelman more options off the bench. Last NBA season, Denver struggled with second-unit depth. That became one of the team’s most common criticisms throughout the year. As a result, Nikola Jokic carried a heavy workload. He had no reliable backup center to provide rest. With Jonas now on the roster, that problem looks solved.
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Moreover, their option to bet on a two-big formation could be a good alternative to change the game. The Rockets followed that model last season with solid results. Thanks to this added flexibility, the Nuggets gain size and versatility. That balance could help them stay competitive in the race for the championship.
In the 2024-25 season, Jonas Valanciunas played in 81 games. During those appearances, he averaged 10.4 points while contributing 7.7 rebounds and 2 assists. His numbers do not match Nikola Jokic’s level, but his overall impact could make him a strong fit alongside the Nuggets star. Because of that, the team might gain a valuable piece for roster balance. His addition may seem like a move to strengthen the bench, but the season is long, and he could take on a much larger role.
