The Denver Nuggets anticipate heart Jonas Valanciunas to be with the crew when the season begins regardless of hypothesis about his NBA future. Government vp Ben Tenzer dismissed issues concerning the veteran heart’s dedication throughout Friday’s information convention.
Denver formally acquired the 6-foot-11 Valanciunas from Sacramento for Dario Saric final weekend. Studies emerged of Greek EuroLeague membership Panathinaikos courting Valanciunas, creating confusion given his two-year, $20 million remaining contract.
Tenzer addressed the hypothesis instantly throughout Cam Johnson’s introductory press convention.
“There’s been nothing however wholesome conversations by way of him honoring his contract and him excited to be a Nugget,” Tenzer mentioned of Valanciunas.
When requested about issues concerning Valanciunas’ availability for the season opener, Tenzer responded definitively.
“No issues,” Tenzer mentioned.
The Valanciunas commerce caps a productive offseason following Denver’s Recreation 7 loss to NBA champion Oklahoma Metropolis. The entrance workplace duo of Tenzer and Jonathan Wallace considerably reworked the roster.
Denver additionally acquired Johnson in a deal that despatched 2023 championship contributor Michael Porter Jr. to Brooklyn. The Nuggets added former title teammate Bruce Brown and capturing guard Tim Hardaway Jr.
Valanciunas will play for Lithuania at FIBA EuroBasket this summer season. Nuggets officers might journey abroad to proceed discussions with the 33-year-old heart.
“Their plan is for him to get right here ahead of later, however nonetheless working by that,” Wallace mentioned.
The veteran heart averaged 10.4 factors, 7.7 rebounds and two assists over 81 video games whereas splitting time between Washington and Sacramento final season. Denver acquired Valanciunas particularly to supply relaxation for three-time MVP Nikola Jokic.
Jokic averaged a career-high 36.7 minutes per recreation final season, highlighting the necessity for dependable backup heart minutes.
