Lithuanian big man Jonas Valanciunas is in his third year in the NBA, and he has the makings of a future star center. At just 23 years of age, he’s already putting up strong numbers for the Toronto Raptors. Last year he averaged 12 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game. Valanciunas isn’t the most skilled player offensively, but nevertheless, he uses his size to get buckets at an efficient rate down low. Last season Valaniciunas shot 57.2% from the field — the second best mark in the league. He’s also showed some solid rim protection, something that the Raptors value highly.
The Raptors recognize Valanciunas’ value, and want him to be a part of their future. They are in talks with the 7-footer, discussing a big contract.
ESPN sources say Jonas Valanciunas has indeed taken brief leave from Lithuanian NT to return to Toronto to firm up extension with Raptors
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) August 17, 2015
ESPN sources say Valanciunas extension is not done but sides are in advanced discussions on four-year pact worth in excess of $60 million
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) August 17, 2015
These talks are likely going smoothly considering that the two parties have until November to finalize the contract and are already nearing an agreement. $60 million over 4 years is a pretty fair price for Valanciunas given his contributions now and his enormous potential to improve. He could absolutely be the Raptors’ center of the future.
The Raptors’ roster looks pretty similar compared to last season, although they did get a great shooter and defender in DeMarre Carroll. They also signed Cory Joseph and Bismack Biyombo, and did not re-sign sixth man Lou Williams.
UPDATE:
Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo! Sports has the final details on Valanciunas’ new deal with the Raptors.
Toronto center Jonas Valanciunas has agreed to a four-year, $64M extension, league sources tell Yahoo. Deal could escalate to $70M
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) August 20, 2015
Valanciunas deal includes a player option for fourth year, league sources tell Yahoo.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) August 20, 2015
