Ht/Wt: 6-10 / 230 lbs
Position: PF/C
Team: Lithuania
Class: International

2011 Draft Profile - Jonas Valanciunas

I like him more than Kanter. His body is not as developed but he is quicker, and more fluid athlete and I think he finishes much better. He will be best if he plays with a good PG, handles passes in the lane well, catches alley oops. He is good at getting out and running, makes a lot of athletic plays, good motor but gets into foul trouble which is a good sign from a international player. Even though he is thin he is young enough for his body to develop. A good enough outside shooter to keep opposing teams honest. NBA level length and athleticism.

A lot of unknows with Jonas, definitely a project and will need a lot of coaching. Tape that I have seen have been making athletic plays where the pg creates and he finishes. He will be best at PF where he can have mismatches with his athleticism, but he needs post moves and more strength for defense and rebounding.

Unfortunately he reminds me of Yi Jianlan out of China a few yrs ago. No doubt he has the length and athleticism scouts want. If he plays right away he will have to respond to the physical mismatches and improve, or like Yi he could get discouraged by being overpowered and lose playing time and confidence. If I drafted him I would bring him along slowly and have him study Pau Gason religiously. The potential is there.
Player profile submitted by: Tom Patterson

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Jonas Valanciunas vs France


Jonas Valanciunas Top U18 dunks



Valanciunas block





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