By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
David Adelman shared his opinion on incoming center Jonas Valanciunas.
With the official confirmation of the trade to secure the services of the experienced Lithuanian big pending, the head coach of the Denver Nuggets is excited about additional depth at the five position, behind superstar Nikola Jokic.
“Point center,” Adelman described the position of Valanciunas during discussions with local reporters on Thursday, relays Jake Shapiro of Denver Sports 104.3.
“You can play combo guards, you don’t need a lead point guard, you can play five-out offense, off the elbow, post him up. He’s such a skilled player,” added the 44-year-old tactician, “First time we have our backup with a similar skillset to Nikola Jokic beside DeMarcus Cousins.”
The well-documented interest of EuroLeague powerhouse Panathinaikos Aktor has complicated the situation surrounding the 33-year-old center. However, the Nuggets are expected to soon formally announce the arrival of Valanciunas, a veteran of 995 NBA games between the Toronto Raptors, Memphis Grizzlies, New Orleans Pelicans, Washington Wizards, and Sacramento Kings.
A busy offseason for the native of Utena will extend to representing Lithuania in the EuroBasket 2025. A loyal with the senior national team of his country, he previously suited up in the 2011, 2013, 2015, 2017, and 2022 editions of EuroBasket, capturing silver medals in 2013 and 2015. He was also part of the final squad in the Olympic Games in 2012 and 2016, the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in 2012 and 2021, and the 2014 and 2019 installments of the FIBA World Cup.