Jonas Valanciunas

Jonas Valanciunas, affectionately known as “JV” or “Valanciunus” depending on your familiarity, is a Lithuanian center currently playing for the New Orleans Pelicans. He’s a consistent, reliable presence in the paint, known for his rebounding, scoring inside, and surprisingly adept passing for a big man of his stature.

Drafted 5th overall by the Toronto Raptors in 2011, Valanciunas didn’t actually make his NBA debut until the 2012-13 season. He quickly became a fan favorite in Toronto, providing a physical presence that the team had lacked. While he wasn’t flashy, his consistency and work ethic endeared him to Raptors fans. He consistently improved his scoring and rebounding numbers during his time in Toronto, developing into a reliable offensive weapon, particularly in the pick-and-roll game.

However, despite his popularity and production, Valanciunas often found himself in a precarious position within the Raptors’ evolving roster. He was sometimes criticized for his lack of defensive mobility in the increasingly perimeter-oriented NBA. While he made strides in improving his defensive awareness, he was never considered an elite rim protector. His minutes fluctuated depending on matchups and coaching philosophies.

In 2019, Valanciunas was traded to the Memphis Grizzlies as part of the package that brought Marc Gasol to Toronto. This move, while initially disappointing for JV and Raptors fans, proved to be a turning point in his career. In Memphis, he was given a larger offensive role and more consistent playing time. He thrived in the Grizzlies’ system, becoming a double-double machine and showcasing his offensive versatility. His time in Memphis also allowed him to develop his outside shooting, adding another dimension to his game.

After a successful stint in Memphis, Valanciunas was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans in 2021. He quickly formed a strong frontcourt partnership with Zion Williamson and later, CJ McCollum. He continues to be a key contributor for the Pelicans, providing them with much-needed rebounding, scoring, and veteran leadership. He’s proven to be a valuable asset, anchoring the paint and providing a consistent offensive threat. His offensive rebounding is particularly valuable, giving the Pelicans second-chance opportunities.

Throughout his NBA career, Valanciunas has been a model of professionalism and dedication. He is known for his hard work, positive attitude, and commitment to his team. While he may not be a perennial All-Star, he is a valuable player who consistently contributes to winning basketball. His journey from a highly touted European prospect to a reliable NBA veteran is a testament to his dedication and perseverance. He remains a beloved figure in Toronto and continues to make his mark in New Orleans, proving that consistency and hard work can pave the way for a long and successful NBA career.