The Denver Nuggets’ offseason plan could be facing a major snag after Jonas Valančiūnas stopped short of confirming his commitment to the team for the upcoming season.
The 33-year-old, was acquired earlier this summer to provide Nikola Jokić with the backup he’s lacked in recent years.
The veteran center gave a cryptic response when asked if he’ll suit up for Denver, when speaking at the B8 Basketball Summit in Lithuania.
“We will find out only when the first game is played,” Valančiūnas said. “Everything will be clear.”
The 6-foot-11 big man is entering the second season of a three-year, $30.3 million contract.
Reports have circulated that he has interest in playing overseas, specifically with Greek EuroLeague powerhouse Panathinaikos.
“Once the trade is done we’ll make a plan,” Valančiūnas added. “They’ll express their wishes, how they think, how they see it. … Medical (examination), other details. It will depend on the team.”
Denver, however, appears to have no intention of releasing him from his deal. The Nuggets expect Valančiūnas to honor the contract and fill a critical role behind Jokić, according to ESPN.
The Serbian superstar logged a career-high 36.7 minutes per game last season and averaged 40.2 in the playoffs as Denver lacked a reliable option off the bench. That workload caught up to Jokić during a grueling postseason run that ended in seven games against the eventual champion Oklahoma City Thunder.
Valančiūnas averaged 10.4 points and 7.7 rebounds in 18.8 minutes across stints with the Kings and Wizards last season. His physical presence could be a game-changer for Denver’s second unit if he stays.
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