Jonas Valanciunas’ Career
Jonas Valanciunas is a Lithuanian professional basketball player who currently plays for the New Orleans Pelicans of the National Basketball Association (NBA). Standing at 6 feet 11 inches (2.11 m) tall, he plays the center position.
Valanciunas began his professional career in Lithuania, playing for the Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius youth team from 2006 to 2008. He then joined the senior team in 2008 and played there until 2011. During his time with Lietuvos Rytas, Valanciunas won two Lithuanian League championships (2009 and 2010) and one Baltic League championship (2009).
Jonas Valančiūnas, the Lithuanian center, has proven to be a valuable asset for the New Orleans Pelicans. His size and rebounding ability have helped the team improve its defense. However, the Pelicans may need to consider trading Valančiūnas if they want to acquire Paul George from the Los Angeles Lakers.
George is a perennial All-Star who would give the Pelicans a much-needed boost on the wing. If the Pelicans can swing a deal for George, it could be a major step forward for the franchise. But it would also mean saying goodbye to Valančiūnas, a player who has been a key part of the team’s success.
In 2011, Valanciunas was selected by the Toronto Raptors with the fifth overall pick in the NBA draft. He spent seven seasons with the Raptors, averaging 12.7 points and 8.9 rebounds per game. During his time in Toronto, Valanciunas was named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 2013 and helped the Raptors reach the Eastern Conference Finals in 2016.
Jonas Valančiūnas, the Lithuanian basketball player, has faced some tough opponents throughout his career. One of the most notable is Mikal Bridges , a young and talented forward who has made a name for himself in the NBA. Bridges is known for his exceptional defense, and he has often been tasked with guarding Valančiūnas.
Despite Valančiūnas’ size and strength, Bridges has been able to hold his own, and he has even forced Valančiūnas to adjust his game. However, Valančiūnas remains a formidable opponent, and he will continue to be a challenge for Bridges and other defenders in the years to come.
In 2019, Valanciunas was traded to the Memphis Grizzlies. He spent two seasons with the Grizzlies, averaging 17.1 points and 12.5 rebounds per game. In 2021, Valanciunas was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans.
Valanciunas has also been a member of the Lithuanian national basketball team since 2011. He has helped Lithuania win a silver medal at the 2013 EuroBasket and a bronze medal at the 2015 EuroBasket.
Major Accomplishments, Awards, and Accolades
- NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2013)
- Lithuanian League champion (2009, 2010)
- Baltic League champion (2009)
- EuroBasket silver medalist (2013)
- EuroBasket bronze medalist (2015)
Career Statistics
| Season | Team | GP | PTS | REB | BLK |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012-13 | Toronto Raptors | 82 | 8.9 | 6.0 | 0.9 |
| 2013-14 | Toronto Raptors | 64 | 10.3 | 8.8 | 0.9 |
| 2014-15 | Toronto Raptors | 80 | 12.8 | 9.3 | 0.8 |
| 2015-16 | Toronto Raptors | 75 | 12.4 | 9.1 | 0.6 |
| 2016-17 | Toronto Raptors | 77 | 12.2 | 8.5 | 0.6 |
| 2017-18 | Toronto Raptors | 73 | 12.7 | 8.6 | 0.7 |
| 2018-19 | Toronto Raptors | 76 | 12.7 | 9.5 | 0.6 |
| 2019-20 | Memphis Grizzlies | 73 | 17.1 | 12.5 | 0.8 |
| 2020-21 | Memphis Grizzlies | 62 | 17.1 | 12.2 | 0.9 |
| 2021-22 | New Orleans Pelicans | 74 | 17.8 | 11.4 | 0.7 |
| 2022-23 | New Orleans Pelicans | 56 | 17.9 | 11.9 | 0.8 |
Jonas Valanciunas’ Playing Style and Impact
Jonas Valanciunas is known for his physical presence and versatility on the court. He is a strong and athletic center who can impact the game in multiple ways.
Offensive Impact
Valanciunas is a skilled post scorer with a soft touch around the rim. He has a good understanding of angles and uses his size and strength to create scoring opportunities. He is also a capable passer, which makes him a threat in the pick-and-roll game.
Defensive Impact
Defensively, Valanciunas is a solid rebounder and rim protector. He has good instincts and timing, which allows him to block shots and alter opponents’ shots. He is also a physical presence in the paint, which makes it difficult for opponents to score inside.
Overall Impact
Valanciunas has been a valuable contributor to every team he has played for. He is a versatile player who can impact the game in multiple ways. He is a skilled scorer, rebounder, and defender who can help his team win games.
Jonas Valanciunas’ Legacy and Future
Jonas Valanciunas has cemented his legacy as a formidable force in the NBA. His impact on the game has been significant, and his future holds the potential for even greater achievements.
Individual Success and Accolades
Valanciunas has amassed a series of individual accolades throughout his career, including multiple All-Star selections and All-NBA team honors. His consistent performances and ability to dominate in the paint have earned him recognition as one of the league’s top centers.
Team Success and Championships, Jonas valanciunas
Valanciunas’ contributions have played a pivotal role in the success of the teams he has played for. As a key member of the Memphis Grizzlies, he helped lead them to several playoff appearances. His presence in the paint has been a stabilizing force for the team, providing them with a reliable scoring and rebounding threat.
Potential for Future Success
Valanciunas’ future prospects remain bright. He is still in his prime and has shown no signs of slowing down. With his continued hard work and dedication, he has the potential to achieve even greater heights in the NBA.
Career Highlights and Memorable Moments
* Selected 5th overall by the Toronto Raptors in the 2011 NBA Draft
* Traded to the Memphis Grizzlies in 2019
* Named to the All-Rookie Second Team in 2012
* Selected to the All-Star team in 2019 and 2021
* Led the Grizzlies to the playoffs in 2021 and 2022
* Set a Grizzlies franchise record for rebounds in a single game with 29 in 2022
