Apr 29, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Pelicans center Jonas Valanciunas (17) dribbles against Oklahoma City Thunder forward Chet Holmgren (7) during the first half of game four of the first round for the 2024 NBA playoffs at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports
The Washington Wizards acquired center Jonas Valanciunas from the New Orleans Pelicans on Saturday in a sign-and-trade deal for a 2027 second-round draft pick that is protected by the Chicago Bulls between slots 31 and 50.
Valanciunas, 32, averaged 12.2 points and 8.8 rebounds in 82 games (all starts) for the Pelicans last season.
In 12 NBA seasons for the Toronto Raptors, Memphis Grizzlies, and Pelicans, Valanciunas has averaged 13.4 points with 9.5 rebounds in 856 games (827 starts).
Only six NBA players started in all 82 of their teams’ regular-season games last season.
–Field Level Media
The NBA offseason is always filled with player movements and trades, and one of the recent acquisitions that caught the attention of basketball fans is the Washington Wizards acquiring center Jonas Valanciunas from the New Orleans Pelicans.
The trade, which took place on Saturday, involved a sign-and-trade deal where the Wizards sent a 2027 second-round draft pick that is protected by the Chicago Bulls between slots 31 and 50 to the Pelicans in exchange for the veteran center.
Valanciunas, who is 32 years old, had a solid season with the Pelicans, averaging 12.2 points and 8.8 rebounds in 82 games, all of which he started. His presence in the paint and ability to grab rebounds will undoubtedly strengthen the Wizards’ frontcourt rotation.
The Lithuanian big man has had a successful career in the NBA, playing for the Toronto Raptors, Memphis Grizzlies, and most recently, the Pelicans. Over his 12 seasons in the league, Valanciunas has averaged 13.4 points and 9.5 rebounds in 856 games, with 827 of those being starts.
What sets Valanciunas apart is his durability and consistency on the court. Last season, only six NBA players managed to start in all 82 of their team’s regular-season games, showcasing Valanciunas’ commitment and reliability as a player.
With this trade, the Wizards are hoping that Valanciunas will bring his experience and skills to help the team compete at a higher level in the upcoming season. Fans will be eager to see how he fits into the lineup and contributes to the team’s success.
In conclusion, the acquisition of Jonas Valanciunas by the Washington Wizards adds a valuable piece to their roster and sets the stage for an exciting season ahead. As the NBA offseason continues, basketball enthusiasts will be keeping a close eye on the various moves and trades taking place across the league.
