The Denver Nuggets acquired Jonas Valanciunas with a clear goal in mind. Nikola Jokic is widely regarded as the best center in the NBA, but depth has been an issue at the position and Denver realized that a proven veteran was needed for the task at hand.
Valanciunas' contributions have flown under the radar in 2025-26, but make no mistake about it: He's the secret weapon Denver hoped he would be.
Valanciunas, 33, is currently playing just 12.2 minutes per game—by far the fewest of his career. He's made the most of his opportunities, however, averaging 8.