Denver Post’s Troy Renck highlights the importance of Jonas Valanciunas as backup to Nikola Jokic—and why Denver can’t afford to cave amid Valanciunas’s interest in Europe .
Renck notes that it doesn’t matter if Valanciunas thinks of himself as “a bonus Jonas” or dreams of a reality‑TV show like “My Big Fat Greek Meeting” during contract talks with Panathinaikos . The trade—sending Dario Saric to Sacramento—has made Valanciunas Denver’s backup center at Ball Arena, rounding out one of the franchise’s best offseasons .
But there’s a problem: Valanciunas has dropped vague hints he might want out. He’s been in contact with Panathinaikos, drawn by the chance to play closer to home and chase stardom—heightened by a rumored three‑year offer .
His current one-year, $10.4 million NBA deal binds him here—Panathinaikos can’t sign him unless the Nuggets release him. Denver, however, needs him to keep Jokic fresh for a deep playoff run . Jokic logged career highs in minutes last season (36.7 regular, 40.2 playoffs), and new coach David Adelman has stressed the importance of having a capable backup to carry the load .
Valanciunas’s contract gives Denver full leverage. The Nuggets have no reason to renegotiate—his current deal actually offers flexibility for other roster moves, like a Christian Braun extension .
Addressing questions about his intentions, Valanciunas told reporters: **“When I am sure, I will talk about everything.”**
Nuggets co‑GM Ben Tenzer reinforced the plan, saying on Altitude 92.5 FM: “absolutely” expects Valanciunas to play for Denver, adding, **“We had indications that he was going to honor that contract. We were never worried about anything going on out there (in Greece) to be honest.”**
Renck argues that Denver must hold firm and use its leverage—no renegotiations or buyouts. Valanciunas is “stuck,” and the Nuggets need him to give Jokic rest and sustain a championship push .
Valanciunas won’t be forced into compliance—Renck emphasizes he deserves understanding if family or money are motivating him. But unless he goes full “Jimmy Butler”—”throw a tantrum, start missing meetings and force a suspension”—Denver will stay resolute .
Once the season begins, Renck expects Valanciunas to buckle down (“roll up his sleeves and play hard”), especially given his rebounding prowess. And while backing up Jokic may not match his prior 82‑game starter status, the rationale for staying is clear: **“It stinks. But he’s stuck. And you know what doesn’t suck? Winning a championship.”**
