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By Bailey Caldwell

MEMPHIS, TN - FEBRUARY 25: Jonas Valanciunas #17 of the Memphis Grizzlies is seen during the game against the Los Angeles Lakers on February 25, 2019 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)
MEMPHIS, TN - FEBRUARY 25: Jonas Valanciunas #17 of the Memphis Grizzlies is seen during the game against the Los Angeles Lakers on February 25, 2019 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Photo by Michael J. LeBrecht II/NBAE via Getty Images
Photo by Michael J. LeBrecht II/NBAE via Getty Images /

2. Jonas Valanciunas

The most proven player in this rotation, Jonas Valanciunas provides stability down low. After coming to Memphis last season, JV averaged a double-double and played some great ball. His presence gives the team the ability to keep JJJ at the 4, and the duo developed a good chemistry late last year. Valanciunas will be a key player for the team this season.

While he doesn’t provide much of a deep-range threat, Valanciunas is a quality inside scorer. He’s incredibly strong, and uses his size well to establish position down low. He has a soft touch that he utilizes to score over his defenders. Valanciunas should see a lot of pick action this season. He’s shown a decent mid-range game over his career as well, which will help maintain spacing.

Valanciunas is the best rebounder on the team. That will be key for them this season as they hope to ramp up their pace. JV also showed off some rim protection last season, averaging 1.6 blocks in his 19 games as a Grizzly.

The key for Valanciunas at this moment is health. He’s been sidelined with a foot injury. The injury is considered minor, but 7-footers historically struggle with foot injuries. Once he returns, he’ll have to find his fit in the new system and roster. This season, the paint won’t be as open as last year. Valanciunas may have to rely on his jumper more, which will be interesting to see.

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