The Jonas Valanciunas saga dragged on for quite some time. The Denver Nuggets did not know whether they finally had the reliable backup center that has eluded them during the Nikola Jokic era. A press conference to introduce Cam Johnson to the Denver media also allowed for some access to the front office executives.

Jonas Valanciunas was traded to the Denver Nuggets in a deal that sent Dario Saric to the Sacramento Kings. The trade, from Denver's standpoint, gives the franchise a reliable backup to star big man Nikola Jokic.

Nuggets officials confirmed Friday that they expect Jonas Valanciunas to be with the team when the season starts amid speculation he may join Greek EuroLeague club team Panathinaikos.