Jonas Valanciunas joins Denver: Nuggets finally find Jokic’s backup

The Denver Nuggets continue their remarkable offseason by acquiring Jonas Valanciunas. The 33-year-old Lithuanian center arrives in Colorado as part of a trade with the Sacramento Kings, who receive Dario Saric in return.

The Sacramento Kings are trading Jonas Valanciunas to the Denver Nuggets for Dario Saric, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/D2Xmbm4DN1

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2025

This acquisition represents a masterstroke for Denver, who had long been seeking a reliable backup for Nikola Jokic. Valanciunas, with his 6’11 » frame and thirteen seasons of NBA experience, brings exactly what the Nuggets needed: a center capable of scoring in the paint and grabbing rebounds.

An economical and strategic addition for Denver

The trade proves particularly smart financially. Valanciunas will earn approximately $10.4 million in 2025-2026, with a non-guaranteed salary of $10 million for 2026-2027. Saric was in the final year of his contract at roughly $5.4 million.

Last season, the Lithuanian veteran averaged 10.4 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 2 assists in 18.8 minutes per game, split between Washington and Sacramento after his February trade. With 81 combined appearances, Valanciunas remains a durable player who can contribute with his physicality and touch near the rim.

For Sacramento, this transaction follows a cost-saving logic. The Kings save approximately $5 million in the deal, giving them the flexibility needed to finalize their agreement with veteran Dennis Schröder without paying the luxury tax.

Denver positions itself among the favorites

After already acquiring Cam Johnson and Bruce Brown, the Nuggets continue to strengthen intelligently. Valanciunas’s arrival finally solves Denver’s recurring problem: what to do when Jokic rests on the bench? The Lithuanian, despite his defensive limitations, remains an efficient paint scorer and solid rebounder.

This series of moves places Denver among the serious contenders for the 2026 Finals, alongside Oklahoma City and Houston. The Nuggets’ front office is delivering a masterclass during this recruitment window, providing their triple MVP with the necessary weapons to reclaim a title.

For Sacramento, Valanciunas’s departure leaves Domantas Sabonis without his European teammate, but allows French player Maxime Raynaud (7’1″, 22 years old) to aspire to real playing time behind the All-Star.