Denver Nuggets Expected To Pursue Veteran Center Al Horford After Valanciunas Overseas Move

The Denver Nuggets have made significant offseason moves to strengthen their roster, including trading Dario Saric to the Sacramento Kings for center Jonas Valanciunas, aiming to secure a reliable backup for Nikola Jokic. However, Valanciunas is reportedly considering leaving the NBA to sign a lucrative three-year deal with Greek team Panathinaikos, creating uncertainty for Denver's plans. This unexpected development has prompted the Nuggets to pursue veteran big man Al Horford in free agency as an alternative, despite his age of 39, given his recent strong performance and championship experience. The Nuggets' front office, also undergoing leadership changes with a new head coach and general manager, must now decide whether to convince Valanciunas to stay, pivot fully to Horford, or use Valanciunas's salary cap space for other signings. While the trade for Valanciunas has not yet been finalized due to salary cap reasons, the team remains a top contender in the NBA and is actively working to maintain a balanced roster around Jokic. The situation highlights Denver's adaptability and determination to address their backup center needs amid unexpected challenges.