After a disappointing playoff exit, the Denver Nuggets have begun their offseason with aggressive roster changes aimed at maximizing Nikola Jokic's window for success. They traded Michael Porter Jr. to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for sharpshooter Cameron Johnson, adding a much-needed scoring threat while creating additional cap space.

Additionally, the Nuggets enhanced their frontcourt depth by trading Dario Saric for veteran center Jonas Valanciunas from the Sacramento Kings. This swap is particularly significant as Valanciunas brings both scoring and rebounding capabilities, essential for relieving Jokic during his rest periods. Expect the Nuggets to continue exploring roster improvements as they aim for a championship run.

The Sacramento Kings have traded center Jonas Valanciunas to the Denver Nuggets in exchange for Dario Saric, according to sources. Valanciunas, who has two years and approximately $20 million left on his contract, had a modest performance with the Kings, averaging 8.7 points and 7 rebounds in 32 games. The Nuggets, seeking a reliable backup for MVP Nikola Jokic, hope Valanciunas can fulfill that role. Saric, meanwhile, struggled in Denver, averaging just 3.5 points, and his expiring contract gives the Kings more future flexibility.

This trade comes during a busy offseason for the Nuggets, who have already made significant moves, including trading Michael Porter Jr. for Cam Johnson and re-signing Bruce Brown. The Kings are working towards reshaping their roster and maximizing their cap space for the future, making this trade a strategic decision as they look to improve their position in the league.

The Denver Nuggets are making a significant move, trading Dario Saric to the Sacramento Kings in exchange for veteran center Jonas Valanciunas. Valanciunas, who averaged 10.4 points and 7.7 rebounds last season, brings stability and experience to the Nuggets' frontcourt. His two-year, $20.4 million contract will make him an unrestricted free agent in 2027. This trade comes after the Nuggets cleared space by dealing Michael Porter Jr. to the Brooklyn Nets, allowing them to take on additional salary in the process. Saric, who underperformed in Denver, appeared in just 16 games last season.

The Denver Nuggets recently concluded a tumultuous season marked by significant coaching changes and unexpected playoff success. After firing their head coach and general manager just days before the regular season's end, they managed to defeat the Los Angeles Clippers in the first round of the playoffs. Guided by David Adelman, the Nuggets showcased resilience, pushing the Oklahoma City Thunder to a thrilling seven-game series before their postseason run was halted.

Key contributions came from Russell Westbrook, who excelled off the bench, particularly against the Clippers, delivering vital second-chance points and shooting 41.9% from beyond the arc. As Westbrook heads into free agency after declining his player option, the Nuggets are expected to seek additional depth for the upcoming season. Meanwhile, veteran forward Dario Saric has exercised his player option, potentially positioning him as a buyout candidate, given his limited role during the regular season and playoffs. The Nuggets face an uncertain summer, especially with no draft picks, making free agency critical for their future.

The Philadelphia 76ers have a storied draft history, particularly highlighted by their 2014 selections. Initially, the Sixers drafted Joel Embiid third overall before surprising fans by selecting Elfrid Payton with the tenth pick. However, they quickly traded Payton to the Orlando Magic, acquiring the twelfth pick, which they used to select Dario Saric from Croatia. Saric went on to make a strong impact in his debut season, averaging 12.0 points and 6.1 rebounds, and was a key part of the Sixers’ 2018 playoff run.

Although Saric later moved on to play for the Minnesota Timberwolves, Phoenix Suns, Oklahoma City Thunder, and currently, the Denver Nuggets, his time with the Sixers remains significant. Notably, he was part of the Suns’ 2021 Finals team, showcasing his growth despite a setback due to injury. This draft is a prime example of the strategic moves that shaped the Sixers’ future.