UPDATE: The Denver Nuggets have made a significant roster move, acquiring Jonas Valanciunas from the Sacramento Kings in a trade that is already paying dividends. This trade, which sent Dario Saric to Sacramento, has ignited a transformation on the Nuggets’ bench, and the impacts are being felt immediately.
In a recent game on December 5, 2023, Valanciunas showcased his value off the bench, contributing 15 points on a perfect 7-for-7 shooting performance in a decisive 31-point victory over the Kings. The Nuggets’ star, Nikola Jokic, who usually dominates the court, was visibly excited, celebrating with the younger bench players during a pivotal fourth-quarter comeback.
Valanciunas has made an immediate impact since joining the Nuggets. He has played in all 24 games this season, a stark contrast to Saric, who only appeared in 16 games during his time in Denver. This trade not only alleviated the Nuggets’ ongoing search for a reliable backup center but has also contributed to a more effective team dynamic when Jokic is off the floor.
The Nuggets’ net rating when Jokic is resting has improved significantly, now standing at -1.5, compared to last season’s -9.3. This improvement reflects the stability Valanciunas brings as he steps into a role previously filled by Saric, who struggled to make an impact last year.
Valanciunas is averaging 8.5 points in just 12.8 minutes per game, but his efficiency is impressive. He holds a remarkable 23.9 points per 36 minutes and is shooting 58.9% from the field. His scoring on post-ups ranks him among the top scorers in the league, with only three players boasting a higher point-per-possession rate.
As the Nuggets continue their season, Coach David Adelman has expressed confidence in utilizing Valanciunas effectively, emphasizing the importance of maintaining Jokic’s physical and mental freshness leading into the playoffs.
Looking ahead, the Nuggets will face the Kings again soon, and fans will be eager to see how Valanciunas continues to integrate into the team. This trade not only enhances Denver’s depth but also positions them as stronger contenders this season.
Stay tuned for further updates as the Nuggets aim to capitalize on this advantageous trade, and watch for more exhilarating performances from Valanciunas as he settles into his crucial role.
