The Denver Nuggets’ offseason appeared masterfully orchestrated just days ago. The franchise had addressed multiple roster needs through strategic moves: acquiring Cam Johnson via trade, re-signing Bruce Brown, adding Tim Hardaway Jr., and seemingly solving their persistent backup center problem by agreeing to acquire Jonas Valančiūnas from Sacramento.
But the plan unraveled when Valančiūnas reportedly chose to sign overseas with Greek club Panathinaikos instead of joining Denver. This sudden reversal has forced the Nuggets to pivot quickly, with their attention now turning to a veteran solution that could provide the stability they desperately need behind three-time MVP Nikola Jokić.
Al Horford Emerges as Denver’s Primary Target After Jonas Valančiūnas Departure
Denver is reportedly expected to make a serious run at Al Horford in free agency after suddenly being left without a backup center. The 39-year-old veteran could be a perfect fit for a Nuggets organization that has struggled for years to find reliable depth behind Jokić.
“With the Nuggets now once again without a backup center, they are widely expected to pivot to pursuing Al Horford in free agency. The Warriors and Lakers are the only teams currently in the Horford sweepstakes, but Denver would instantly offer him an important rotation role,” NBA analyst Evan Sidery wrote on X.
With the Nuggets now once again without a backup center, they are widely expected to pivot to pursuing Al Horford in free agency.
The Warriors and Lakers are the only teams currently in the Horford sweepstakes, but Denver would instantly offer him an important rotation role. pic.twitter.com/m6KQmMmA9N
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) July 4, 2025
The unexpected twist came after reports indicated Valančiūnas is planning to sign a three-year, €12 million deal with Greek club Panathinaikos. This development exposes the fragility of Denver’s roster construction, as the franchise finds itself back at square one with the same problem that has plagued them for multiple seasons.
Denver’s position in the Horford sweepstakes has strengthened considerably. The team still holds the full $14.1 million non-taxpayer midlevel exception, providing the financial flexibility to make a competitive offer. The Los Angeles Lakers recently signed Deandre Ayton, so it’s unclear if they are still in the mix for Horford, leaving the Nuggets and Golden State Warriors as the primary suitors for the five-time All-Star’s services.
Horford’s Championship Experience Could Transform Denver’s Playoff Depth
At 39, Horford is weighing his future, with retirement reportedly on the table alongside potential NBA destinations. However, Denver’s championship aspirations and clear rotation role could prove compelling factors in his decision-making process. His championship experience with Boston, combined with his defensive versatility and basketball IQ, would address multiple areas where the Nuggets have struggled in recent playoff runs.
The Nuggets learned costly lessons last season about the importance of frontcourt depth. Dario Šarić’s inconsistent play forced coach Michael Malone to deploy Aaron Gordon at center during extended stretches, disrupting the team’s preferred rotations and exposing defensive vulnerabilities.
While the roster features developing bigs like Zeke Nnaji and rookie DaRon Holmes II, neither has proven capable of providing consistent minutes in high-stakes situations.
Horford’s 2024-25 production — 9.0 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game — reflects efficiency rather than volume. His true value lies in his ability to guard multiple positions, stretch the floor with three-point shooting, and facilitate ball movement. These skills complement Jokić’s offensive system perfectly, as the Serbian star thrives when surrounded by intelligent players who understand spacing and ball movement.
The five-time All-Star’s offensive rebounding remains underrated. He quietly creates second-chance opportunities that prove decisive in playoff environments. His presence would allow Denver to maintain its pace and style even when Jokić rests, something it has struggled to achieve consistently.
Golden State remains in contention for Horford’s services, but Denver’s championship window and defined role could prove decisive. The Nuggets can offer immediate playoff relevance and a clear path to meaningful minutes, factors that may appeal to a veteran considering his final NBA chapter.