The Denver Nuggets are determined to retain Jonas Valanciunas despite his tempting offer from EuroLeague powerhouse Panathinaikos, a reliable league source revealed to The Denver Post.

In a trade agreed upon last Tuesday, the Nuggets are set to bring Valanciunas over from the Sacramento Kings, though it still awaits finalization with the league. Recent reports suggest the Lithuanian center is contemplating a three-year deal with the Greek club, raising questions about his commitment to the Nuggets.

At 33, Valanciunas is a seasoned player, currently under contract with Denver through 2027, which includes a $10.4 million salary for the 2025-26 season. If Valanciunas opts for the European route, he would need to negotiate a buyout, releasing him from his NBA obligations, likely forcing him to forfeit his salary.

The Nuggets have big plans for Valanciunas, envisioning him as the ideal backup to superstar Nikola Jokic—a crucial role that could ease Jokic’s workload. Last season, the three-time MVP played a staggering 36.7 minutes per game, ranking fourth in the NBA.

Currently in Europe, Valanciunas is even listed on Lithuania's preliminary roster for the upcoming FIBA EuroBasket tournament. However, the Nuggets’ refusal to let him go carries its own risks. If he arrives at training camp with half-hearted enthusiasm for his NBA career, it might create a tumultuous atmosphere as the new season kicks off.

This gamble could be worthwhile, especially given the lean market for centers right now. Valanciunas, boasting career averages of 13.1 points and 9.3 rebounds per game, remains a valuable asset.

Should the Nuggets finalize a buyout, they'd need to quickly fill the void in their frontcourt as offseason moves have mostly wrapped up across the league. However, they would still possess the full non-taxpayer mid-level exception, valued at $14.1 million, to attract a replacement.

As of now, veteran big man Al Horford remains a free agent. Linked to the Golden State Warriors, he could slip away soon, but he represents a strong backup plan if the Nuggets need to pivot.

Another viable option could be Chris Boucher, though at 6-foot-9, he would add to Denver's smaller center repertoire, alongside DaRon Holmes II.

There are whispers that Nikola Vucevic's trade value in Chicago is dwindling, prompting the Bulls to consider a buyout. Though his hefty $21.5 million salary may complicate things, his friendship with Jokic could make Denver an attractive landing spot for him.

Options remain scarce for the Nuggets, but their primary focus seems to be on securing Valanciunas and keeping him in their roster, ensuring they don't miss out on this key asset.