By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Denver Nuggets head coach David Adelman has overhauled his rotation, opting for a versatile small-ball unit that has left veteran center Jonas Valanciunas staying on the bench for four consecutive games of the 2025-26 NBA Regular Season. This strategic shift prioritizes defensive mobility and aggression, utilizing lineups featuring Aaron Gordon or Spencer Jones at center. By moving away from the initial backup to Serbian superstar Nikola Jokic, 44-year-old Adelman aims to increase the team’s ability to switch on screens, disrupt passing lanes, and ignite fast-break opportunities when the Joker is off the floor.
This sudden removal from the rotation marks a low point in a steady career decline for the 33-year-old Lithuanian. After peaking at over 30 minutes per game just four seasons ago, Valanciunas’s role has dwindled to a mere 13.3 minutes per game during the 2025-26 campaign with the Nuggets. Before the recent benching, his impact had already become sporadic. Over his last 16 appearances, his production dipped to just 6.1 points and 3.9 rebounds per game, signaling a loss of rhythm within the offensive system.
The current friction follows a chaotic offseason with Greek powerhouse Panathinaikos Aktor looking to secure his services in the EuroLeague with a huge offer. With Denver insisting he honors the NBA contract acquired via trade from the Sacramento Kings, he eventually decided to stay in the NBA, which now leaves the former fifth-overall draft pick in a precarious position as a deep reserve. With over 1,000 NBA appearances under his belt, the veteran must now navigate a season where his presence on the court is no longer guaranteed.