Russell Westbrook has officially hit the free-agent market after opting out of his contract with the Denver Nuggets. Initially, a return to Denver appeared plausible, given his solid performance last season. Westbrook contributed significantly, averaging 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 6.1 assists in 75 games. However, the Nuggets have recently bolstered their roster with Tim Hardaway Jr. and Bruce Brown, making it unlikely for Westbrook to rejoin the team.

During the 'Pat Bev Podcast', Patrick Beverley remarked on Denver's shift towards enhancing their shooting capabilities, indicating that the team’s offseason moves suggest they are moving away from Westbrook. The Sacramento Kings are reportedly interested in Westbrook, raising questions about where he might land as the Nuggets focus on shooting support for their star player, Nikola Jokic.

The Denver Nuggets have made significant moves this offseason, following a challenging season that culminated in the firing of head coach Michael Malone and general manager Calvin Booth. Despite the changes and the challenge of facing the formidable Oklahoma City Thunder in the playoffs, the Nuggets showed resilience, pushing the series to seven games. Key players like Nikola Jokic and Russell Westbrook played pivotal roles, with Westbrook shooting impressively from the three-point line.

In a bid to enhance their frontcourt depth, the Nuggets acquired veteran Jonas Valanciunas from the Sacramento Kings. However, negotiations hit a snag due to interest from a Greek club. The Nuggets have expressed their commitment to ensuring Valanciunas honors his contract, viewing him as a crucial asset alongside Jokic. Additionally, they've been active in the trade market, notably sending Michael Porter Jr. to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for Cameron Johnson and reuniting with popular guard Bruce Brown.

Ryan Bowen has been appointed as the new head coach of the Grand Rapids Gold, the G League affiliate of the Denver Nuggets, succeeding Andre Miller. Miller is stepping down to pursue other coaching opportunities after three seasons. Bowen, who has been part of the Nuggets coaching staff since 2015, brings a wealth of experience as both a former player and assistant coach.

Bowen, drafted by the Nuggets in 1998, played five seasons in Denver and later with the Rockets, Hornets, and Thunder. His transition to coaching began in 2011, serving under George Karl in Denver. He now inherits a Gold team that finished with a 15-19 record last season. Additionally, Chad Iske will take on the role of general manager, replacing Ben Tenzer, now the Nuggets' executive vice president of basketball operations.

The Denver Nuggets are set to finalize their trade for Jonas Valančiūnas, who will provide much-needed depth behind MVP Nikola Jokić. Despite interest from Panathinaikos, the Nuggets intend to maintain control over Valančiūnas, who has two years remaining on his contract valued at $20 million. The Lithuanian center, known for his consistent production, averaged 10.4 points and 7.7 rebounds last season. With the Nuggets blocking his potential move overseas, Valančiūnas is expected to contribute significantly to the team, particularly as they navigate a competitive season.

Valančiūnas's experience as a full-time starter for over a decade will be crucial for the Nuggets, especially as they seek to enhance their frontcourt depth. His ability to play both as a reliable bench player and a spot starter adds considerable flexibility to Denver's roster. The Nuggets' decision not to release him from his contract ensures they avoid dipping into free agency for big men, which could prove pivotal in their playoff aspirations.

The Denver Nuggets are determined to keep Jonas Valanciunas from leaving for the EuroLeague, despite his reported interest in a lucrative offer from Panathinaikos. The Nuggets have an agreement in place to acquire Valanciunas from the Sacramento Kings, which includes inheriting his $10.4 million salary for the 2025-26 season. Valanciunas, who is still under contract until 2027, would need to negotiate a buyout with the Nuggets to pursue opportunities in Europe.

This decision carries risk for the Nuggets, as any reluctance from Valanciunas to report for training camp could lead to a challenging season. Nevertheless, Denver believes Valanciunas could significantly ease the workload of three-time MVP Nikola Jokic, who averaged nearly 37 minutes per game last season. If the Nuggets do allow a buyout, they may struggle to find a reliable replacement in a market with limited options for centers.

As a potential fallback, the Nuggets could utilize the non-taxpayer mid-level exception worth $14.1 million, with free agent Al Horford being a key target. Other options may include Chris Boucher or potentially Nikola Vucevic, should the Bulls decide to make him available. Ultimately, the Nuggets prefer Valanciunas to honor his contract, valuing his experience and skillset at the center position.