Denver Nuggets Send Jonas Valanciunas a Blunt 3-Word Message Amid EuroLeague Drama

The Denver Nuggets recently sent a stern three-word message to Jonas Valanciunas, the newly-acquired backup center for their superstar Nikola Jokic, underscoring their firm stance amid a complex offseason situation.

The Backup Center Dilemma Surrounding Jonas Valaciunas

For years, the Denver Nuggets have struggled to find a reliable backup for Jokic, the three-time NBA MVP whose unique skill set is central to Denver’s offense. When Jokic rests, the team’s offense often stagnates, making the backup center position critical for maintaining competitiveness during the regular season. This offseason, Denver finally addressed this issue by trading for Jonas Valanciunas from the Sacramento Kings in exchange for Dario Saric.Valanciunas, a 6-foot-11, 265-pound veteran, is a versatile big man capable of scoring from multiple levels, rebounding aggressively, and providing solid defense. Last season, he averaged 10.4 points and 7.7 rebounds in just 20.1 minutes per game, making him an ideal candidate to keep the Nuggets’ frontcourt strong when Jokic is off the floor.

The Three-Word Message: "Honor Your Contract"

Despite the promising fit, Valanciunas has complicated the situation by expressing a desire to leave the NBA and join Greek powerhouse Panathinaikos in the EuroLeague.

He reportedly offered to forfeit his $10.4 million contract to make the move possible. However, the Denver Nuggets have made it crystal clear with their three-word directive to Valanciunas: "Honor your contract."Denver has no intention of granting a buyout or releasing Valanciunas from his contract, as they view him as a critical piece to back up Jokic and maintain championship aspirations. This firm stance is also a strategic move to preserve their cap space and avoid reopening the backup center void should Valanciunas depart.

Why This Matters for the Denver Nuggets and Jokic

The Denver Nuggets’ message is both a warning and a declaration of intent. They are signaling that they expect Valanciunas to fulfill his role and contribute to the team’s success rather than pursuing a European career at this juncture. This is crucial for Jokic, who benefits immensely from having a dependable partner in the paint. With Jokic entering his 30s, managing his minutes and health is vital for Denver’s championship window.Moreover, the Nuggets have bolstered their roster with other key additions like Bruce Brown, Cam Johnson, and Tim Hardaway Jr., aiming to build a deep, versatile team around Jokic. Keeping Valanciunas committed is part of that larger strategy to sustain a strong frontcourt rotation and avoid the offensive freezes that occur when Jokic sits.

Entertaining the Drama

This offseason saga adds an intriguing layer to the Denver Nuggets’ narrative.

Valanciunas, a seasoned NBA veteran, is caught between a lucrative NBA contract and the allure of a European basketball return. The Nuggets’ three-word message is a no-nonsense reminder that business comes first in the NBA, even as players weigh personal and professional crossroads.For fans, this creates a compelling subplot: Will Valanciunas comply and become the steadfast backup Jokic needs, or will the Nuggets have to navigate another backup center crisis? Either way, Denver’s front office is playing hardball, emphasizing team commitment over individual preference.Also read: Bronny James’ Viral Dunk Was So Insane, the Internet Thought the NBA Drug Tested HimIn summary, the Denver Nuggets have sent a clear and firm message to Jonas Valanciunas: "Honor your contract." This three-word directive reflects the team’s determination to secure a reliable backup center for Nikola Jokic and maintain their championship aspirations, despite Valanciunas’ expressed interest in leaving for Europe. The Nuggets’ stance highlights the high stakes and complex negotiations behind the scenes as they prepare for the 2025-26 NBA season.