The trade that sent Dario Saric to the Sacramento Kings in exchange for Jonas Valanciunas is already yielding significant benefits for the Denver Nuggets. This transaction, completed in July, has transformed the team’s bench performance early in the season, contributing to a robust start and improving the overall dynamics when star center Nikola Jokic is off the court.
On December 5, during a game against the Atlanta Hawks, Valanciunas showcased his impact with a powerful go-ahead dunk that was part of a remarkable 20-0 run by the Nuggets, a feat accomplished without Jokic’s direct involvement. The moment highlighted not just Valanciunas’s athleticism but also the shift in the team dynamic that has emerged from the trade. Jokic, who usually remains composed during games, leaped from his seat, celebrating alongside younger teammates, emphasizing the camaraderie and collective spirit that Valanciunas has brought to the roster.
The Nuggets faced significant challenges last season with Saric as their backup center, who struggled to make a meaningful contribution, playing only 16 games while earning a substantial salary of $5.2 million. The decision to trade Saric became a strategic move, allowing the Nuggets to acquire Valanciunas without sacrificing any draft capital. This was a pivotal moment; it not only provided them with a reliable backup but also addressed their ongoing search for depth behind Jokic.
Valanciunas, now 33, has been a revelation for the Nuggets. Thus far, he has participated in all 24 games of the season, already exceeding Saric’s total appearances. His contributions have been noteworthy, averaging 8.5 points in just 12.8 minutes of play per game. While these figures may suggest he is on track for a single-digit scoring average for the first time since his rookie season, his efficiency is remarkable. Valanciunas is scoring 23.9 points per 36 minutes, showcasing his ability to make an impact when called upon.
His shooting statistics further illustrate his effectiveness: he boasts a field goal percentage of 58.9% and a two-point shooting percentage of 61.1%, both of which rank among his best career numbers. His proficiency in the post has positioned him as one of the league’s more efficient scorers. He ranks fourth among high-volume post-up players, averaging 1.14 points per possession.
The overall improvement in the Nuggets’ performance during non-Jokic minutes is striking. The team’s net rating with Jokic off the floor has risen to -1.5, a significant increase compared to last season’s -9.3 and the year before’s -8.6. This change reflects a more stable and effective bench unit, a direct result of Valanciunas’s presence.
As the Nuggets strive for a successful season with an eye on the playoffs, ensuring Jokic remains fresh is a top priority. Valanciunas has seamlessly integrated into his role, proving to be a vital asset behind the scenes as well. The organization views him as a starter contributing off the bench, and his buy-in to this role has been commendable.
In a recent matchup against the Kings, Valanciunas scored 15 points off the bench, hitting all seven of his attempts, further emphasizing his technical prowess and scoring ability. The synergy between him and Jokic has become a focal point for the Nuggets, generating optimism among fans and analysts alike.
The trade that delivered Valanciunas to Denver without the loss of future assets illustrates a savvy maneuver by the Nuggets’ front office. As the season progresses, the team looks to build on this momentum, with Valanciunas playing a pivotal role in navigating the rigors of an NBA schedule. The Nuggets are not just aiming for regular-season success but are also focused on maximizing their chances in the playoffs, making the integration of Valanciunas all the more crucial.
