Latest news with #DenverNuggets
Yahoo
18 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Nuggets facing issue in otherwise successful offseason
DENVER (KDVR) — The Denver Nuggets have had a pretty eventful and successful offseason so far. Big trades freed up enough cap space to sign some pivotal free agents, while also bringing in players that may bring more balance to the team. Everything was going smoothly, and then a snag in the line hit. Advertisement Nuggets, Avs are in 2025's most valuable sports empire in the world: CNBC Newly acquired player Jonas Valančiūnas was brought to Denver in a trade with the Sacramento Kings. Valančiūnas is a productive center that the team and fans are looking forward to seeing pick up the non-Nikola Jokić minutes, an issue that plagued the team last season. A near-nightly double-double for his career, Valančiūnas offers any team a hub to run its offense through, which includes a team in Greece that sought to bring Valančiūnas into its ranks this offseason. Greek team Panathinaikos offered him a three-year contract worth nearly $13 million. However, Valančiūnas is under contract with the Nuggets through the 2026-27 NBA season, with a guaranteed salary of $10.4 million in 2025-26 and a team option for $10 million in 2026-27. Advertisement Nuggets add another NBA champ to coaching lineup Valančiūnas reportedly showed a mutual interest in joining Panathinaikos, but the Nuggets fully expect the center to honor his contract with their franchise, according to reports from ESPN. The trade is expected to be finalized at the end of the week, according to Bleacher Report, so although unlikely, anything can happen. There have been no reports as of now, but a contract buyout would allow Valančiūnas to leave, but the Nuggets have been stern, stating the contract will be upheld. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
Yahoo
18 hours ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Valančiūnas trade to Nuggets made official following short-lived issue
DENVER (KDVR) — The Denver Nuggets announced on Sunday afternoon that the trade for Jonas Valančiūnas with the Sacramento Kings was made official following a spot of drama that temporarily threw a spanner in the works. The now completed trade sees Valančiūnas headed to the Mile High City in exchange for Dario Šarić, who is heading in the opposite direction to Sacramento. Advertisement Photos: Rescuers in Larimer County save 3 hikers in one day The trade was initially reported on July 1, during a few busy days for the Nuggets, who were very active in the market, making several trades and free agent signings to retool a team looking to win it all in the postseason. Fans excited by the news had a bit of rain on their parade as word got out that Valančiūnas was considering a move back to Europe, and that Greek basketball club Panathinaikos had offered the center a three-year contract worth 12 million euros, according to NBA Insider Marc Stein. However, the Nuggets said that the franchise intended to honor the contract in the trade with Sacramento and expected Valančiūnas to be part of the team. Bleacher Report reported that the trade would be completed by the end of the week, and on Sunday, that report held true. Advertisement Valančiūnas, the No. 5 overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, has averaged a near double-double for his career and will provide a spark off the bench or might even suit up alongside Denver superstar Nikola Jokić in a double-big lineup next season. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Nuggets VP shares (likely) conclusive update about Nikola Jokić's backup
The revitalized NBA title contender Denver Nuggets thought they had finally acquired a competent backup center for Nikola Jokić when they reportedly traded for veteran big man Jonas Valančiūnas at the start of 2025 NBA free agency. However, it was later revealed that Greek EuroLeague club Panathinaikos B.C. had strongly courted Valančiūnas overseas, with the Lithuanian center seriously pondering ending his NBA career. The implication was that Valančiūnas wanted to finish his NBA career so he could be closer to his family in Europe. From there, it sounded like he was willing to surrender his NBA salary in full had the Nuggets granted him permission out of a contract that has two years of team control (and just under $20.4 million total) remaining. Advertisement Naturally, these developments caught the Nuggets off guard, who apparently had no idea Valančiūnas was considering leaving the NBA to play in Greece before making the trade. Ultimately, per NBA reporter Marc Stein, the Nuggets did not grant Valančiūnas's wishes. And this past Saturday, the Valančiūnas trade was finalized after Denver had finished shuffling around unrelated moving parts. As of Tuesday morning, it seems like an abject certainty that he will play in the 2025-2026 NBA season for Denver. That's at least according to Nuggets executive vice president of basketball operations, Ben Tenzer, who was interviewed by Altitude Sports Radio on Tuesday. Tenzer not only didn't sound concerned about Panathinaikos ever really luring Valančiūnas over from Denver, but he also clarified that he expects the player they call "Big Val" to indeed play for the Nuggets: That sounds very encouraging and confident on the Nuggets' part. All's well that ends well, right? Advertisement Not necessarily. Maybe. Probably. Earlier this week, during a speaking event with Lithuanian basketball, Valančiūnas was weirdly cryptic about his professional future. Hmm: While I have no doubt that Valančiūnas is probably still somewhat upset about how this situation was resolved so far, this isn't necessarily him casting doubt on actually coming over to Denver and playing like a professional. He could have simply been declining to comment on it further until the conclusion of the upcoming EuroBasket tournament in late August and early September. Based on Tenzer's public comments here, it seems likely that Valančiūnas chose that path. I suppose we'll have full clarity soon enough. Well, not that soon, but you get the idea. Advertisement This article originally appeared on For The Win: Nuggets' Ben Tenzer shares definitive update about Jonas Valančiūnas situation
Time of India
2 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
NBA Hall of Famer Declared Nikola Jokić a Basketball Genius: "He Thinks Like Magic and LeBron"
Jerry West (Image via Getty) In the rich history of basketball, few voices hold as much influence as Jerry West 's. A Hall of Famer famously known as 'The Logo,' West's legacy is etched not just in NBA lore but in the very silhouette of the league itself. When he speaks, especially on talent evaluation, the basketball community listens. And when it comes to Nikola Jokić, West's praise is not just enthusiastic—it's transformative. Jerry West's Praise for Nikola Jokic on Dave Wohl's Podcast During an appearance on Dave Wohl's Front Office podcast, West offered perhaps the highest compliment possible for Nikola Jokić , likening his basketball mind to that of Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, LeBron James , and Chris Paul. 'He thinks like Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Chris Paul, LeBron James and he's seven feet tall,' West noted. Such a comparison is no small feat—it places the Denver Nuggets star among the cerebral giants of the sport. What separates Jokić from other big men is his ability to see the court with unparalleled clarity. His mind operates on a different level, identifying passing angles and opportunities in ways reminiscent of elite playmakers—only he's doing it from the center position. Jerry Stated taht Jokic has Magic in His Hands For West, Jokić's physical gifts are as impressive as his mental sharpness. One of his standout traits? His extraordinary hands. West emphasized how Jokić has what he believes to be 'the greatest pair of hands' in the game. Whether it's securing a rebound in the middle of chaos or threading a no-look pass from the post, Jokić's hand control makes the extraordinary seem routine. Describing Jokić's rebounding instincts, West said, 'He can be right in the middle of eight hands and somehow that ball comes out in his hands.' It's a blend of finesse, anticipation, and touch that allows him to dominate without ever needing to out-jump or out-muscle opponents. Why Nikola Jokic is Redefining the Center Role Jerry West on his love for MMA, his pick to win NBA FINALS, and life after basketball Jokić is doing more than just excelling—he's reshaping the traditional definition of a center. Former NBA guard BJ Armstrong echoed this sentiment, calling Jokić a 'point-five'—a rare hybrid of point guard and center. 'He is the first five-man you can actually run your offense through,' Armstrong said, emphasizing how Jokić's court vision changes the offensive landscape. His passing game is a revelation. From initiating fast breaks to orchestrating half-court sets, Jokić doesn't just participate in the offense—he runs it. Armstrong marveled at how Jokić can rebound, dribble coast-to-coast, and make perfect reads in transition, something practically unheard of from players at his position. Mastering the Game with Grace Perhaps the most compelling aspect of Jokić's game is how effortlessly he seems to operate. West described watching Jokić as akin to watching someone 'playing in a hammock'—relaxed, composed, and always in control. It's not that Jokić overwhelms with speed or strength. Rather, he charms the audience with his feel for the game. BJ Armstrong aptly captured this quality by saying, 'He doesn't move fast, he doesn't jump high, he's not quick, but he is charming.' That charm translates into numbers—stat lines that often include double-digit rebounds and assists, with scoring sprinkled in effortlessly. West Touched on Nikola's Championship Brilliance Jokić's greatness was cemented during the 2023 NBA Playoffs, where he led the Denver Nuggets to their first-ever championship. His dominance in the Finals, capped by a Finals MVP award, silenced any remaining skepticism. For West, the title wasn't just a win—it was a validation of Jokić's unorthodox brilliance. That playoff run reinforced the idea that basketball IQ and skill can win just as effectively as speed and athleticism. Jokić proved that understanding the game on a deeper level is often more impactful than flashy plays or highlight reels. How Nikola Jokić is Shaping the Future West's admiration for Nikola Jokić also hints at where basketball might be headed. Much like Stephen Curry changed how the game is played by extending shooting range, Jokić is ushering in a new era for centers—one where intelligence, vision, and versatility are prioritized over pure athleticism. As teams look to develop future stars, Jokić's model may become the standard. Big men will no longer be judged solely on how high they jump or how well they defend the rim but on how well they can think the game, pass, and lead from any position on the floor. Also read: Cleveland Cavaliers Re-Sign Randy Mims, Reinforcing Ties to LeBron James and a Legacy of Loyalty Nikola Jokić has quietly sparked a revolution—not with brashness or bold proclamations, but with a calm dominance that's changing how we view the modern NBA. Jerry West sees it clearly: Jokić isn't just great. He's transformative. For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Nuggets' Cam Johnson reflects on Nets tenure during emotional goodbye
Mar 16, 2025; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Brooklyn Nets forward Cameron Johnson (2) runs up court after making basket against the Atlanta Hawks during the first half at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images The post Nuggets' Cam Johnson reflects on Nets tenure during emotional goodbye appeared first on ClutchPoints. After over a year of trade speculation, Cam Johnson's Brooklyn Nets tenure came to a close last week. Following the news that he was joining the Denver Nuggets in a trade for Michael Porter Jr., the veteran forward reflected on his Nets tenure during an emotional goodbye. Advertisement 'I love the people in that building. My teammates, the coaching staff, front office, training staff, strength staff. The best part about playing for Brooklyn for me was showing up to work and seeing those guys and ladies that we had in the building,' Johnson said on The Young Man and the Three podcast. 'I enjoyed it because of that, and I had faith in what we were building because of that. I really think Jordi's a fantastic coach. Playing that one season under him, personnel constantly shifting, we had trades, we had injuries, he always maintained such a good approach to the team, and he was always able to motivate us to play hard. 'Our record wasn't great, but I think throughout the season we consistently gave effort. And I credit our coaching staff a lot for that. Two years there, [making the] playoffs when we first got there. Obviously, we wish we could've been better. And I was willing to do everything in my power to get us back on a winning track. And I think they'll get there eventually. I have faith in those guys in that building. I'll miss them, and I appreciate them. I appreciate everything they did for me and my career.' Johnson played two and a half seasons with Brooklyn after joining the team in a blockbuster trade that sent Kevin Durant to the Phoenix Suns. Advertisement Cam Johnson reflects on Nets tenure after bombshell Nuggets trade John Jones-Imagn Images The 6-foot-8 sharpshooter had a career-best season in 2024-25, averaging 18.8 points and 3.4 assists on 48/39/89 shooting splits. He emerged as the most respected voice in Brooklyn's locker room during the stellar campaign. The Nets trading their top player from last season further signals their commitment to a rebuild after making an NBA-record five first-round picks in the 2025 draft. General Manager Sean Marks thanked Johnson for his contributions after the deal became official. 'We want to sincerely thank Cam Johnson for everything he brought to our team these past few seasons,' Marks said. 'He embraced Brooklyn as his home from the moment he arrived, and the impact he's made both within the borough and our organization will be felt for years to come. We wish him and his family nothing but the best in the future.' Advertisement The Nets will move forward in their rebuild with one of the NBA's youngest rosters. Porter Jr. (27) and Terance Mann (28) are the team's oldest players. The former will step into an expanded role with Brooklyn, something he recently said he had been seeking in Denver. Porter Jr. also revealed that he and Johnson are 'boys' and have had conversations about swapping houses. Johnson spoke highly of his Nets replacement. 'I wish Mike the best of luck going there, figuring the situation out, and helping contribute to winning basketball. It's never to be taken lightly when you add championship pedigree to a team,' he said. While the Nets continue their climb back to relevancy, Johnson will join a revamped Nuggets supporting cast alongside Nikola Jokic. It will mark his first time playing for a contender since his finals run with the Suns in 2021-22. Advertisement 'I think we all know what the group is capable of. They're fresh off a championship just a couple of seasons ago. They have tremendous players, tremendous pieces, and from everything that I've been told, a high-level coaching staff,' he said. 'It was mentioned before that they were 30th in three-point attempts last season. We can fact-check that, but if that's true, it's not for a lack of opportunity. It's not for a lack of spacing on the court. 'Tim [Hardaway Jr. and I] both played against Denver plenty of times. They have Jamal, AG, Jokic, they're able to pull guys around the court and create double teams, create kick outs, create one mores. And for us, there's going to be a lot of opportunity to thrive.' Related: Nets' Nolan Traore the 'definition of speed' in impressive Summer League debut Related: Nets' Egor Demin reveals 'deep' revelation following Summer League debut
