Jonas Valanciunas Injury News & Updates
Keep up with the latest injuries from the Magic vs Nuggets game on Thursday with our National Basketball Association injury report.Dec 2, 2025
Strong showing in limited minutes
Valanciunas ended with eight points (4-7 FG), seven rebounds and two assists across 11 minutes during Monday's 131-121 loss to Dallas.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has done a fine job backing up Nikola Jokic, averaging 8.2 points and 4.8 rebounds across just 12.6 minutes this season. While his fantasy floor is very limited, as he will not see the court at the same time as Jokic, Valanciunas could be a great option should Jokic miss time, but currently should not be rostered in most formats.
Nov 25, 2025
Modest role continues
Valanciunas provided six points (3-6 FG), six rebounds, one assist and one steal over 14 minutes during Monday's 125-115 victory over the Grizzlies.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas played fewer than 15 minutes for the fifth time in the past seven games, serving as the backup to Nikola Jokic. While his skill set sets him up to be one of the more reliable backup centers in the league, the opportunity for him to step up is simply not there. Barring an injury to Jokic, expect to see Valanciunas locked in to a 15-minute role moving forward.
Nov 20, 2025
Drops 14 points in 16 minutes
Valanciunas racked up 14 points (4-5 FG, 6-6 FT) and seven rebounds over 16 minutes during Wednesday's 125-118 victory over the Pelicans.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas bounced back from a dismal performance Monday, making all six free-throw attempts and four of five field goal attempts en route to 14 points Thursday. While it appears Valanciunas' role hinges largely on whether superstar Nikola Jokic plays in the fourth quarter, he should still be monitored should Jokic miss any time.
Nov 12, 2025
Scores 10 points in 15 minutes
Valanciunas supplied 10 points (3-8 FG, 4-6 FT), seven rebounds, one assist and one block over 15 minutes during Tuesday's 122-108 win over the Kings.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas continues to provide Denver with ample production as the backup center, averaging 9.0 points and 5.0 rebounds through the first 10 games of the season. While he is one of the more reliable second-string centers in the league, he would need Nikola Jokic to miss time to have a shot at delivering standard league value.
Nov 4, 2025
Blocks two shots in win
Valanciunas supplied eight points (4-5 FG, 0-1 3Pt), three rebounds, two blocks and one steal in 12 minutes during Monday's 130-124 win over the Kings.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has his role solidified as Nikola Jokic's backup, averaging 8.7 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 0.8 blocks and 0.2 steals over 12.0 minutes. His only path to seeing more playing time would be in the event of injury or absence.
Oct 26, 2025
Scores 12 in 13 minutes
Valanciunas supplied 12 points (4-10 FG, 4-5 FT), seven rebounds and one assist across 13 minutes during Saturday's 133-111 win over the Suns.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas didn't play heavy minutes but was active when on the floor, finishing in double figures and tying for the third-most shot attempts on the team while making his presence felt on the glass. The veteran big man isn't challenging superstar Nikola Jokic for the starting job anytime soon, but Valanciunas has been a steady and productive contributor in his backup role so far this season.
Oct 24, 2025
Plays well off bench
Valanciunas produced eight points (4-5 FG), three rebounds, two assists and one block over 12 minutes during Thursday's 137-131 overtime loss to the Warriors.
ANALYSIS
As well as Valanciunas played, his workload was pretty disappointing. There's been some talk about Valanciunas sharing the floor with Nikola Jokic in "certain situations," but it's hard to imagine that happening often. Valanciunas' fantasy appeal is likely going to be limited to deeper leagues for the time being.
Oct 17, 2025
Starting Friday
Valanciunas is in the starting lineup for Friday's preseason game against the Thunder, Katy Winge of Altitude Sports reports.
ANALYSIS
The Nuggets will be resting most of their regular starters, so Valanciunas will get the starting nod at center over Nikola Jokic. Valanciunas figures to have a steady role as the main big off the bench once the Nuggets open their regular season against the Warriors on Oct. 23.
Oct 13, 2025
Near double-double off bench
Valanciunas delivered 10 points (5-7 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 0-1 FT), nine rebounds and an assist in 18 minutes off the bench during Sunday's 102-94 preseason win over the Clippers.
ANALYSIS
He also committed four turnovers and five fouls, but it was still an effective performance from Valanciunas. Having the 33-year-old big man on the roster could allow the Nuggets to ease up on Nikola Jokic's workload a bit during the regular season, but after Valanciunas averaged a career-low 18.8 minutes per game over 81 regular-season contests last season between Washington and Sacramento, he isn't likely to see his usage increase in Denver.
Jul 1, 2025
Traded to Denver
The Kings traded Valanciunas to the Nuggets on Tuesday in exchange for Dario Saric, Shams Charania of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas will now share the frontcourt with Nikola Jokic in Denver after playing for Washington and Sacramento during the 2024-25 campaign. Valanciunas played in 81 games last season, averaging 10.4 points, 7.7 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game, shooting 55 percent from the field.
Apr 8, 2025
Double-doubles in win
Valanciunas produced 10 points (2-5 FG, 6-6 FT), 12 rebounds, one assist and one block in 13 minutes during Monday's 127-117 victory over the Pistons.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas needed just 13 minutes to record his first double-double in his past 11 games. Outside of a brief period when Domantas Sabonis was sidelined due to injury, it's been a modest stretch of games for Valanciunas. Since being acquired from the Wizards prior to the trade deadline, he has served primarily as the backup center, typically playing minutes in the low teens.
Mar 26, 2025
Plays just eight minutes
Valanciunas totaled two points (0-4 FG, 2-2 FT), two rebounds and one assist across eight minutes during Tuesday's 121-105 loss to Oklahoma City.
ANALYSIS
With Domantas Sabonis playing both games of this back-to-back set with an average of 35.0 minutes, there isn't much room for Valanciunas to produce much fantasy value. Over his last two games, Valanciunas has averaged a mere 10.5 minutes per contest.
Mar 24, 2025
Sliding to bench vs. Boston
Valanciunas won't start in Monday's game against the Celtics.
ANALYSIS
Domantas Sabonis will return from a three-game absence due to a sprained right ankle Monday, pushing Valanciunas back to the bench. The veteran big man has averaged 10.0 points, 7.0 rebounds and 1.8 assists across 19.0 minutes per game over his last five outings (three starts).
Mar 23, 2025
Logs 18 points in loss
Valanciunas provided 18 points (8-11 FG, 0-2 3Pt, 2-2 FT), seven rebounds and one assist over 27 minutes during Saturday's 114-108 loss to the Bucks.
ANALYSIS
Although Valanciunas' work in place of Domantas Sabonis (ankle) has been steady, his totals are far below what's needed to replace the All-Star. The team is 1-2 since Sabonis went down, and they suffered through a 2-4 slump when he missed five games earlier in the month. Increased production will be needed from Valanciunas as the Kings struggle to earn a playoff berth.
Mar 20, 2025
Posts double-double in start
Valanciunas provided 12 points (5-12 FG, 0-2 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 13 rebounds and two assists across 25 minutes during Wednesday's 123-119 win over the Cavaliers.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas made his way back into the first unit in the absence of Domantas Sabonis (ankle), pacing the team in rebounds while posting a double-double. With Sabonis slated to miss the next few games, fantasy managers should make sure Valanciunas isn't floating around waiver wires. The veteran big man has now started seven games for the Kings, averaging 12.0 points, 12.3 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 0.9 blocks and 0.7 steals in 26.4 minutes as a member of the first unit.
Mar 18, 2025
Swats three shots in win
Valanciunas finished with eight points (4-5 FG), five rebounds, three assists and three blocks across 16 minutes during Monday's 132-122 win over Memphis.
ANALYSIS
Domantas Sabonis suffered a right ankle injury during the third quarter of Monday's game against the Grizzlies and left for good after 12 minutes. It's unclear if Sabonis will miss the upcoming back-to-back set that begins Wednesday, but Valanciunas could be asked to step up if Sacramento's franchise center is unable to go. In 18 total starts this season, Valanciunas holds averages of 12.7 points, 11.2 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.1 blocks and 0.7 steals.
Mar 14, 2025
Shifts to bench against Suns
Valanciunas is not in the starting lineup for Friday's game the Suns.
ANALYSIS
With Domantas Sabonis returning from a hamstring strain Friday, it's not surprising to see Valanciunas shift back to the second unit. Over nine outings off the bench since joining the Kings, the veteran big man has averaged 8.4 points, 6.1 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 0.8 steals and 0.8 blocks in 16.0 minutes.
Mar 14, 2025
Limited run in loss Thursday
Valanciunas closed with five points (2-7 FG, 1-2 FT), nine rebounds and one block across 14 minutes during Thursday's 130-104 loss to Golden State.
ANALYSIS
The big man struggled on the offensive end while receiving the starting nod for the sixth consecutive contest due to Domantas Sabonis (hamstring) being sidelined. During that six-game span, Valanciunas has averaged 12.0 points, 12.2 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 1.0 blocks across 26.7 minutes per contest. However, the 32-year-old played only 14 minutes Thursday, as Trey Lyles (22 minutes) received a slight uptick in playing time in the second unit.
Mar 10, 2025
Pulls down 17 rebounds
Valanciunas had nine points (3-10 FG, 0-2 3Pt, 3-4 FT), 17 rebounds, seven assists, one block and one steal over 42 minutes during Sunday's 111-110 overtime loss to the Clippers.
ANALYSIS
Making another start for the injured Domantas Sabonis (hamstring), Valanciunas matched his season-high mark of 17 rebounds. Over his last four starts, Valanciunas has turned up the heat with averages of 14.3 points, 12.8 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 1.3 steals and 1.0 blocks in 31.0 minutes. Meanwhile, Sabonis remains day-to-day for the Kings.
Mar 8, 2025
Logd 15/12 double-double
Valanciunas accumulated 15 points (7-8 FG, 1-2 FT), 12 rebounds, six assists, one block and two steals over 27 minutes during Friday's 127-109 win over San Antonio.
ANALYSIS
The Kings have managed to go 2-1 without Domantas Sabonis (hamstring), due in large part to Valanciunas' solid play under the basket. He's logged three double-doubles over the past four games and should be added in all fantasy formats while Sabonis is sidelined.
Mar 6, 2025
Records double-double in loss
Valanciunas finished with 19 points (8-14 FG, 3-4 FT), 13 rebounds, six assists and two steals in 32 minutes during Wednesday's 116-110 loss to Denver.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas made a bigger impact in his second start, helping to ease the loss felt by Domantas Sabonis' (hamstring) absence. The Kings will need consistent support from the veteran center as they try to fill the noticeable gap in production, and Wednesday's line shows that he is more than capable.
Mar 3, 2025
Starting vs. Dallas
Valanciunas is starting Monday's game against the Mavericks, James Ham of ESPN 1320 Sacramento reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas will enter the starting lineup at center due to the absence of Domantas Sabonis (hamstring), who will remain out for at least one week. Valanciunas should be the top candidate to eat up minutes at center until Sabonis is cleared to return.
Mar 2, 2025
Makes most of Sabonis' absence
Valanciunas finished Saturday's 113-103 win over the Rockets with 15 points (7-10 FG, 1-1 FT), 14 rebounds, one assist, three blocks and four steals in 30 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas had to play a bigger role than expected since Domantas Sabonis (hamstring) left the contest in the early stages of the first quarter, but he thrived in an expanded role and posted an impressive line. This was his first double-double since joining the Kings, and while he's averaging 8.4 points and 6.1 boards per contest since the trade, he could be in line for a more significant role at center if Sabonis is forced to miss time.
Feb 12, 2025
Only 15 minutes in win
Valanciunas closed with five points (2-3 FG, 1-2 FT), four rebounds, two blocks and one steal over 15 minutes during Wednesday's 119-111 win over the Pelicans.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas, while providing the Kings with a reliable backup center, continues to play limited minutes off the bench. Domantas Sabonis is one of the more durable players in the league, meaning Valanciunas is going to find it hard to play more than 15 minutes per game moving forward.
Feb 7, 2025
Small role in Sactown debut
Valanciunas ended Thursday's 108-102 loss to the Trail Blazers with six points (2-8 FG, 2-2 FT), five rebounds and three assists across 17 minutes off the bench.
ANALYSIS
The veteran center was acquired from the Wizards on Wednesday and wasted little time in making his Kings debut. Valanciunas provided solid per-minute production from the second unit, but with Domantas Sabonis locked into the starting job, Valanciunas may have trouble seeing even the 20.5 minutes a game he'd been averaging for Washington since Christmas.
Feb 6, 2025
Available to play
Valanciunas (recently traded) is available for Thursday's game against Portland, James Ham of ESPN 1320 Sacramento reports.
ANALYSIS
The Kings acquired Valanciunas from the Wizards on Wednesday and the trade has been finalized with the NBA. He'll likely operate as the backup center behind Domantas Sabonis, so it will be hard for him to produce reliable fantasy value outside of deeper formats.
Feb 5, 2025
Traded to Sacramento
The Kings acquired Valanciunas Wednesday in a deal with the Wizards, NBA reporter Marc Stein reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has seemingly been on the trading block since he became eligible to be moved this season after signing with the Wizards in free agency this past summer. The veteran big man has been in countless trade rumors but was finally dealt to the Kings, who have been very active on the trade market, recently acquiring Zach LaVine in a deal involving De'Aaron Fox being shipped to the Spurs. The veteran big man will get Sacramento some depth in the frontcourt, making up an intimidating frontline with Domantas Sabonis.
Feb 3, 2025
Hauls in 17 boards vs. Charlotte
Valanciunas logged 14 points (6-14 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 2-3 FT), 17 rebounds and four assists over 29 minutes during Monday's 124-114 win over the Hornets.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas grabbed a season-high 17 rebounds Monday, eight of which came on the offensive glass, en route to his second-straight double-double and 14th of the regular season. Alex Sarr continues to rehab his way back from a left ankle sprain, and Valanciunas will remain as Washington's starting center for as long as the No. 2 overall pick is sidelined. Valanciunas and the Wizards will wrap up their quick two-game road trip Wednesday against Brooklyn.
Feb 2, 2025
Double-double in Saturday's win
Valanciunas produced 13 points (6-11 FG, 1-1 FT), 10 rebounds, two assists and one steal over 30 minutes during Saturday's 105-103 victory over the Timberwolves.
ANALYSIS
Making his third straight start in place of Alex Sarr (ankle), Valanciunas came through with his 13th double-double of the season after managing just 11 points and 14 boards total in the first two games Sarr sat out. The 30 minutes represented the veteran center's highest workload since Dec. 7, and if Valanciunas is on the trade block as has been rumored, he's showing contenders he can still make a contribution.
Jan 31, 2025
Struggles shooting as starter
Valanciunas finished Thursday's 134-96 loss to the Lakers with five points (1-8 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 3-3 FT), three rebounds and three assists across 18 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas once again got the starting nod Thursday while Alex Sarr (ankle) remains out, and struggled to find his shot in the outing but did manage to lead all Wizards starters in assists. Valanciunas has been relatively quiet offensively as of late, failing to reach double figures in scoring in six of his last 10 outings.
Jan 29, 2025
Starting Wednesday sans Sarr
Valanciunas will start in Wednesday's game against the Raptors, Blake Murphy of Sportsnet.ca reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas will make his ninth start of the season Wednesday in the absence of Alex Sarr (ankle). Over eight starts for the Wizards this year, the veteran big man has averaged 14.8 points, 11.0 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.6 blocks in 25.1 minutes.
Jan 20, 2025
Double-double off bench
Valanciunas provided 23 points (9-11 FG, 5-6 FT), 12 rebounds, three assists and one steal in 23 minutes during Sunday's 123-100 loss to the Kings.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas recorded his first double-double since Jan. 8, and this was the first time he notched a double-double off the bench since late December. The veteran big man remains a solid contributor in the second unit for the Wizards, though his upside will remain fairly limited in this role. He's averaging 11.4 points, 8.6 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 0.6 steals per game since the beginning of January.
Jan 10, 2025
Shifts back to bench
Valanciunas will come off the bench Friday against the Bulls.
ANALYSIS
After starting against the 76ers in place of rookie Alexandre Sarr (illness), Valanciunas will come off the bench Friday against Chicago. The veteran big man had a rough outing as a starter, committing eight turnovers in the loss to Philadelphia. He's averaging 11.9 points, 8.1 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game, shooting 55.3 percent from the floor and 20 percent from beyond the arc.
Jan 8, 2025
Struggles with turnovers in start
Valanciunas ended Wednesday's 109-103 loss to Philadelphia with 14 points (6-13 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 1-1 FT), 14 rebounds, one assist and one block across 21 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Starting for rookie first-rounder Alexandre Sarr (illness) against a 76ers team without Joel Embiid (foot), Valanciunas double-doubled for the 10th time this season but struggled with a game-high eight turnovers. The veteran big man has now started eight games for the Wizards in 2024-25, averaging 14.8 points, 11.0 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.6 blocks and 0.8 steals in 25.1 minutes as a member of Washington's first unit. If Sarr isn't feeling well enough to play in Friday's game against the Bulls, Valanciunas would be in line to once again make a spot start at center and experience a sizable boost in fantasy appeal.
Jan 8, 2025
Steps into starting lineup
Valanciunas is in Wednesday's starting lineup against the 76ers.
ANALYSIS
The veteran big man will hold down the fort at center in the absence of rookie first-rounder Alexandre Sarr (illness) on Wednesday. Valanciunas has averaged 14.9 points, 10.6 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 1.7 blocks in 25.6 minutes over seven games as a starter this season, so he's certainly in line for a short-term boost in fantasy value against Philadelphia.
Jan 7, 2025
Solid outing in blowout loss
Valanciunas supplied 18 points (7-11 FG, 4-4 FT), four rebounds and one assist across 22 minutes during Tuesday's 135-112 loss to the Rockets.
ANALYSIS
The veteran big man finished as the club's second-leading scorer behind Corey Kispert (23 points) in the blowout loss. Valanciunas has played a muted role throughout the season with the Wizards prioritizing Alexandre Sarr's development, and Valanciunas will likely continue to hover around the 20-minute mark. The 32-year-old has reached double-digit points in three of his last five games, and during that five-game span, he has shot 60.0 percent from the floor in 21.0 minutes per contest.
Jan 6, 2025
Muted performance in loss
Valanciunas supplied six points (3-5 FG), seven rebounds, two assists and one block across 20 minutes during Sunday's 110-98 loss to the Pelicans.
ANALYSIS
Alexandre Sarr had one of his best games of the season, and it's clear the Wizards will be prioritizing his development going forward. Valanciunas has been very productive in the minutes he's been getting this season, but a potential trade could be a good thing for his fantasy upside.
Dec 31, 2024
Solid outing against Knicks
Valanciunas closed Monday's 126-106 loss to the Knicks with 22 points (10-13 FG, 1-2 3Pt, 1-1 FT), eight rebounds, two assists and one block across 21 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas helped the Wizards bounce back with a vengeance during Monday's win over New York. The veteran center continues to be a force for the Wizards off the bench, as he's scored 14 or more points and grabbed eight rebounds or more in three straight games.
Dec 26, 2024
Coming off the bench Thursday
Valanciunas is not in the starting lineup for Thursday's game against the Hornets.
ANALYSIS
Alex Sarr has been upgraded from questionable to available for Thursday's matchup after missing Washington's previous contest due to lower back soreness. This means the veteran Valanciunas will move back to his regular role off the bench. The 13-year-old veteran is averaging 10.4 points and 7.0 rebounds per game across 20 appearances off the bench in 2024-25.
Dec 23, 2024
Double-doubles in spot start
Valanciunas finished with 12 points (6-12 FG, 0-1 3Pt), 16 rebounds, one assist, two blocks and two steals over 29 minutes during Monday's 123-105 loss to the Thunder.
ANALYSIS
Valacinuas stepped into the starting lineup after Alex Sarr was ruled out due to a back injury. To no one's surprise, Valanciunas delivered a vintage performance, recording his first double-double in over two weeks. It's been a frustrating season for Valanciunas, coming off the bench as the Wizards lean heavily into their youth. At this point, it seems that he would need a trade to have any chance at playing a consistent 20-minute role. Even then, he would likely be moving to another backup role, assuming he is shipped to a contending team.
Dec 23, 2024
Starting Monday
Valanciunas will enter the starting lineup for Monday's game against the Thunder.
ANALYSIS
With Alexandre Sarr (back) sidelined, Valanciunas will slide into the starting five. The veteran big man has started in six games thus far, during which he has averaged 15.3 points, 9.7 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.7 blocks across 25.0 minutes per contest.
Dec 20, 2024
Efficient off bench
Valanciunas closed with six points (3-6 FG, 0-1 3Pt), eight rebounds and four assists across 15 minutes during Thursday's 123-114 victory over the Hornets.
ANALYSIS
With Alexandre Sarr returning to the starting lineup, Valanciunas has received a decreased role as Washington's backup center. Valancinuas is averaging 15.3 points, 9.7 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.7 blocks in 25.0 minutes across his six starts compared to 10.6 points, 7.0 rebounds and 2.1 assists in 17.7 minutes across his 19 appearances coming off the bench.
Dec 13, 2024
Moves to bench Friday
Valanciunas will come off the bench in Friday's game versus the Cavaliers.
ANALYSIS
With Alexandre Sarr (back) reclaiming his starting spot in the frontcourt alongside Justin Champagnie, Valanciunas will retreat to the bench. Over his last five outings (four starts), the big man has averaged 15.6 points, 9.8 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.4 blocks across 23.6 minutes per game.
Dec 9, 2024
Records double-double in loss
Valanciunas supplied 20 points (8-17 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 4-4 FT), 14 rebounds, two assists and one block in 23 minutes during Sunday's 140-112 loss to the Grizzlies.
ANALYSIS
The Wizards have benefitted from Valanciunas' veteran presence this season, but the veteran center seems to jump from one sinking franchise to another. Still, his low rostership in DFS formats makes him a viable opportunity at center for those hunting for uniqueness in lineup builds. He's quietly accumulated seven double-doubles amid the team's struggles.
Dec 8, 2024
Dominates in paint Saturday
Valanciunas chipped in 20 points (8-15 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 4-4 FT), 12 rebounds, five assists and five blocks across 32 minutes during Saturday's 122-113 win over the Nuggets.
ANALYSIS
It was a season-best effort by Valanciunas, who registered a season-high five blocks and his first 20-point, 10-rebound double-double of the season while starting at center for the absent Alex Sarr (back) on Saturday. Valanciunas' excellent showing down low may have been overshadowed by Nikola Jokic's career-high 56 points for the Nuggets on the other side, but fantasy managers should be pleased with the former's box score despite his five turnovers. Valanciunas has now made five starts for the Wizards, averaging 14.4 points, 8.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.8 blocks in 25.4 minutes per contest while shooting 56.9 percent from the floor as a starter. The veteran big man should play a more pronounced role once again if Sarr remains out Sunday, albeit in a tough matchup with a Grizzlies squad that ranks seventh in the NBA in defensive efficiency rating (108.6).
Dec 7, 2024
Starting Saturday
Valanciunas is in the Wizards' starting lineup for Saturday's game against the Nuggets.
ANALYSIS
After coming off the bench Thursday against the Mavericks, Valanciunas will return to the starting lineup Saturday due to Alex Sarr (back) being ruled out. Over the first 20 games of the regular season (including four starts), Valanciunas is averaging 11.9 points, 7.6 rebounds and 2.1 assists over 19.6 minutes per game.
Dec 5, 2024
Out of starting five Thursday
Valanciunas will come off the bench in Thursday's matchup against Dallas.
ANALYSIS
The Wizards will take a look at Marvin Bagley starting alongside Alex Sarr in the frontcourt, pushing Valanciunas to the bench. The veteran big man started in the Wizards' last two outings, during which he averaged 14.5 points, 9.0 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.0 steals and 0.5 blocks while shooting 61.1 percent from the field across 25.0 minutes per contest.
Dec 4, 2024
Double-double in Tuesday's start
Valanciunas recorded 13 points (5-9 FG, 3-4 FT), 11 rebounds, one block and one steal in 19 minutes during Tuesday's 118-87 loss to Cleveland.
ANALYSIS
Injuries in the Wizards' frontcourt have allowed the team to take a look at Valanciunas and Alex Sarr in the starting lineup together, and the veteran center responded by producing his fifth double-double of the season Tuesday as he made his second straight start. Four of them have come in the last 10 games, and over that stretch Valanciunas is averaging 11.8 points, 8.2 boards, 1.7 assists and 0.8 blocks in 19.4 minutes a contest while shooting 56.8 percent from the floor.
Nov 30, 2024
Productive in spot start Saturday
Valanciunas closed with 16 points (6-9 FG, 0-2 3Pt, 4-4 FT), seven rebounds, five assists and one steal over 31 minutes during Saturday's 124-114 loss to Milwaukee.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas earned his first start since Nov. 8, when he recorded 16 points in a loss to the Grizzlies, in an effort to counter the Bucks' frontcourt physicality of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Brook Lopez. Even though the Wizards suffered another loss, Valanciunas had a decent showing, and the veteran continues to remain valuable in fantasy even if he's not starting. Valanciunas has scored at least 15 points in back-to-back games for the first time this season, and he's registered double-digit points in 12 of his 18 contests.
Nov 30, 2024
Moving to starting role Saturday
Valanciunas is in the starting lineup for Saturday's game against the Bucks, Varun Shankar of The Washington Post reports.
ANALYSIS
The Wizards will add size to their frontcourt to counter the duo of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Brook Lopez, so Valanciunas will start at center and Alex Sarr will get the nod at power forward. Valanciunas is averaging 11.0 points and 7.6 rebounds per game since the beginning of November.
Nov 27, 2024
Plays just 14 minutes
Valanciunas recorded four points (2-4 FG), three rebounds and one assist over 14 minutes during Tuesday's 127-108 loss to the Bulls.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas' minutes continue to trend in the wrong direction, as he's now played 19 or fewer minutes in four straight contests. He's usually been very productive in limited minutes, but Tuesday's game was an outlier. He'll be a popular trade candidate going forward, and a change of scenery could provide a big boost to his fantasy appeal.
Nov 19, 2024
Produces off bench Monday
Valanciunas notched 18 points (8-11 FG, 2-2 FT), eight rebounds, three assists and two blocks across 18 minutes during Monday's 134-106 loss to the Knicks.
ANALYSIS
Alex Sarr continues to struggle on offense, but since the Wizards are going through a rebuilding process, there's not a realistic scenario in which Valanciunas will replace Sarr at center any time soon. The veteran big man is averaging 11.8 points, 7.8 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.0 blocks per game in his last six outings off the bench, and he remains a decent option in most fantasy formats despite his bench role.
Nov 17, 2024
Logs third double-double Sunday
Valanciunas supplied 13 points (4-11 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 4-4 FT), 10 rebounds, two assists and one block over 20 minutes in Sunday's 124-104 loss to the Pistons.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas registered his third double-double of the 2024-25 regular season Sunday, two of which have come over his last three outings. Valanciunas has provided some decent output as the first big man off the Wizards' bench behind 2024 No. 2 overall pick Alexandre Sarr. Valanciunas is averaging 12.2 points on 54.8 percent shooting, 7.8 rebounds and 2.3 assists across 20.3 minutes.
Nov 14, 2024
Double-doubles off bench
Valanciunas had 16 points (6-12 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 4-4 FT), 13 rebounds, two assists and two blocks over 22 minutes during Wednesday's 139-130 loss to the Spurs.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas fracked up just his second double-double of the season, logging in excess of 20 minutes for the first time in the past three games. It's been an underwhelming start to his career in Washington, with rumors already swirling regarding his long-term future. As long as he is pushing 20 minutes per night, he should continue to be a nightly double-double threat.
Nov 10, 2024
Not starting Sunday
Valanciunas won't start Sunday's game against the Magic.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas made a spot start Friday against the Grizzlies but was benched to start the second half in favor of Kyshawn George, who's back in the starting lineup versus Orlando. In six appearances off the bench this season, Valanciunas has averaged 14.0 points, 8.0 rebounds and 3.2 assists in 20.6 minutes per game.
Nov 8, 2024
Starting Friday
Valanciunas is in the starting lineup for Friday's game against the Grizzlies.
ANALYSIS
The Wizards will opt to go big with Valanciunas in the starting lineup. He scored seven points, nine rebounds and four assists across 22.3 minutes in his only other start this season.
Nov 5, 2024
Double-doubles in loss
Valanciunas chipped in 16 points (6-10 FG, 4-4 FT), 12 rebounds and seven assists across 21 minutes during Monday's 125-112 loss to Golden State.
ANALYSIS
This was Valanciunas' first double-double of the campaign, as he continues to be the focal point of the offense for the second unit. He has only block to his name through six games, but he's been productive elsewhere with averages of 12.8 points, 8.2 rebounds and 3.3 assists.
Oct 30, 2024
Well-rounded effort off bench
Valanciunas registered 22 points (8-10 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 5-6 FT), eight rebounds and six assists in Wednesday's 133-120 win over the Hawks.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas entered Washington's starting five Monday against Atlanta, but he retreated to the bench for Wednesday's rematch as No. 2 overall pick Alex Sarr got the nod at center. His change of role didn't seem to bother Valanciunas, however, as he put together a well-rounded game while pacing the Wizards' bench in scoring. The veteran center will provide valuable backup minutes behind Sarr and will occasionally enter the starting lineup throughout the 2024-25 regular season.
Oct 30, 2024
Coming off bench Wednesday
Valanciunas is not in the starting lineup for Wednesday's game against Atlanta.
ANALYSIS
Washington will roll with rookie Alex Sarr at center, flanked by the shooting of Kyshawn George and length of Bilal Coulibaly. Valanciunas has logged between 20 and 22 minutes in all three of Washington's contests thus far.
Oct 28, 2024
Starting Monday
Valanciunas will enter the starting lineup in Monday's matchup against the Hawks, Chase Hughes of Monumental Sports Network reports.
ANALYSIS
The club will opt for its jumbo lineup as the veteran center is slated to replace Carlton Carrington in the starting five. Valanciunas will join Alex Sarr in the frontcourt against Jalen Johnson and Clint Capela. Valanciunas has appeared in two games off the bench, during which he has amassed 28 points and 13 rebounds across 41 total minutes.
Oct 24, 2024
Will come off bench Thursday
Valanciunas is not in the starting lineup for Thursday's game against the Celtics.
ANALYSIS
The veteran big man will come off the bench in the Wizards' season opener, as the coaching staff has decided to go with Alex Sarr and Kyle Kuzma in the frontcourt. Still, Valanciunas should see considerable minutes off the bench against an experienced Boston team.
Oct 18, 2024
Starting Friday
Valanciunas (rest) is available and in the starting lineup for Friday's preseason game versus the Knicks.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas will return to action for Friday's preseason finale after sitting out the Wizards' previous contest for rest purposes. The veteran big man will replace Marvin Bagley in the starting lineup against New York.
Oct 14, 2024
Resting Monday vs. Nets
Valanciunas (rest) has been ruled out for Monday's preseason game against the Nets, Varun Shankar of The Washington Post reports.
ANALYSIS
Marvin Bagley will pick up the start with both Alex Sarr (calf) and Valanciunas sitting out. The 32-year-old's last chance to suit up during the preseason will come Friday against the Knicks.
Oct 11, 2024
Not starting against Toronto
Valanciunas is not in the starting lineup for Fridau's preseason game against the Raptors, Blake Murphy of Sportsnet.ca reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas had started the previous two preseason games alongside Alex Sarr in the frontcourt, but the rookie will start at center in this game, so Valanciunas will head to the bench, and it's uncertain if he'll see the court at all. Kyshawn George will start in Valanciunas' place.
Jun 30, 2024
Agrees to deal with Washington
Valanciunas agreed to a three-year, $30 million contract with the Wizards on Sunday, Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas played at least 74 regular-season games in each of his three seasons with the Pelicans, but his role declined slightly last year, as he averaged 12.2 points, 8.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists in 23.5 minutes per game while appearing in every regular-season matchup. The 32-year-old should have a chance to bounce back as a veteran presence for the Wizards, who just acquired Alex Sarr with the No. 2 pick in this year's draft.
Apr 30, 2024
Strong effort in loss
Valanciunas supplied 19 points (6-15 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 7-8 FT), 13 rebounds, one assist and one steal across 26 minutes during Monday's 97-89 loss to Oklahoma City in Game 4 of the first round of the Western Conference playoffs.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas finished second on his team in scoring and put together a valiant effort on the glass, marking his second double-double of the first round. However, his production wasn't enough to avoid a series sweep as the Thunder were simply too much to handle without the help of Zion Williamson (hamstring).
Apr 25, 2024
Productive in Game 2 defeat
Valanciunas closed Wednesday's 124-92 loss to the Thunder in Game 2 of the Western Conference Quarterfinals with 19 points (8-14 FG, 3-3 FT), seven rebounds and two assists in 23 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has been doing everything he can to slow Chet Holmgren down, and while that has proven to be a daunting task for the veteran, at least he's finding rhythm on the offensive end of the court. Valanciunas has now scored 13 or more points in his last three playoff appearances, and he should continue to experience an uptick in his usage rate with Zion Williamson (hamstring) still sidelined for Game 3 on Saturday.
Apr 22, 2024
Pulls down 20 boards in loss Sunday
Valanciunas registered 13 points (5-9 FG, 3-4 FT), 20 rebounds, two assists and one steal across 29 minutes during Sunday's 94-92 loss to the Thunder in Game 1 of the Western Conference Quarterfinals.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas was heavily criticized for his play during the loss to the Lakers in the first round of the Play-In Tournament, but he's responded extremely well with back-to-back double-doubles against the Kings and Thunder. The veteran big man feasted on the glass against Chet Holmgren and used his physicality to dominate the glass. Expect him to play a prominent role in the paint in Game 2 on Wednesday, especially with Zion Williamson (hamstring) still sidelined for that matchup.
Apr 20, 2024
Delivers double-double Friday
Valanciunas ended Friday's 105-98 Play-In Game win over the Kings with 19 points (8-16 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 3-3 FT), 12 rebounds, three assists and two blocks over 27 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas was a non-factor in the loss against the Lakers in the first round of the Play-In Tournament, but he stepped up in a big way here, as the Pelicans were without Zion Williamson (hamstring). and posted his second double-double since the beginning of April. He ends the season with averages of 12.2 points and 8.9 rebounds per game across 84 appearances, as he didn't miss a single game throughout the campaign. However, his statistical output suffered a marked regression for the second consecutive year, and his future with the Pelicans is not entirely clear for 2024-25 and beyond.
Apr 12, 2024
Records 33rd double-double
Valanciunas finished Thursday's 135-123 victory over Sacramento with 13 points (5-8 FG, 3-5 FT), 10 rebounds, three assists and one steal across 33 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Although Valanciunas' totals have taken a bit of a tumble this season, the 31-year old has served the Pelicans well in the interior. Assuming he plays the final two games, the veteran will have logged a perfect attendance record for the 2023-24 season. Thursday's game marked his 80th start in 80 games.
Apr 6, 2024
Impressive outing vs. Wembanyama
Valanciunas closed Friday's 111-109 loss to the Spurs with 26 points (10-12 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 6-6 FT), seven rebounds, seven assists and one steal in 28 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas had the daunting task of dealing with Victor Wembanyama on both ends of the court. Even though the French rookie finished just one assist shy of a triple-double, Valanciunas held his own, posting his best scoring mark since Dec. 15, when he recorded a season-high 29 points in a win over the Hornets. Valanciunas should continue to see an uptick in touches in case Brandon Ingram (knee) and Zion Williamson (finger) remain out to face the Suns on Sunday.
Mar 31, 2024
Doesn't start second half
Valanciunas ended Saturday's 104-92 loss to the Celtics with two points (1-5 FG, 0-1 3Pt), five rebounds and two assists in 15 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Coming off a strong double-double performance against the Bucks on Thursday, Valanciunas saw just 15 minutes of playing time Saturday. He was not on the floor for the start of the second half, as Larry Nance joined the starting lineup. Valanciunas has seen his minutes wax and wane over the course of the regular season depending on matchups, though he should see the floor more Monday against the Suns.
Mar 27, 2024
Mismatch liability
Valanciunas logged six points (2-4 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 2-3 FT), six rebounds and one assist in 10 minutes during Tuesday's 119-112 loss to Oklahoma City.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas did not play in the second half of Tuesday's loss, with coach Willie Green turning to Larry Nance and small-ball lineups with Zion Williamson at center to combat Chet Holmgren and Oklahoma City's spacing-oriented offense. Valanciunas will likely be more incorporated Thursday against Milwaukee.
Mar 22, 2024
Plays 18 minutes Thursday
Valanciunas supplied six points (3-4 FG, 0-1 3Pt), five rebounds, one assist and one steal over 18 minutes during Thursday's 121-106 loss to the Magic.
ANALYSIS
His low playing time Thursday can be partially chalked up to the Pelicans being down big in the second half. That doesn't change the fact that Valanciunas has failed to reach 20 minutes in a game over his last seven appearances. Part of it has to due with Larry Nance getting big-man minutes off the bench, but New Orleans also tends to play small in the fourth quarter with Zion Williamson moving into the five spot. Valanciunas is capable of filling the stat sheet in limited minutes, as he's registered 31 double-doubles on the year, but he's averaged just 5.3 points and 6.7 rebounds over 17.6 minutes per game over his last seven games.
Mar 16, 2024
Muted effort in win
Valanciunas amassed four points (1-6 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 2-2 FT) and six rebounds across 18 minutes during Friday's 112-104 win over the Clippers.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas was woeful in the loss, scoring just four points in 18 minutes. He has now scored single digits in six of the past eight games, playing limited minutes despite remaining in the starting lineup. The Pelicans are rolling right now, having won five of their previous six games. As long as his reduced role continues, Valacinuas can be dropped in all standard formats.
Mar 6, 2024
Registers double-double Tuesday
Valanciunas totaled 10 points (3-6 FG, 2-2 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 10 rebounds, one assist and one block in 20 minutes during Tuesday's 139-98 win over the Raptors.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas notched his 32nd double-double of the season Tuesday and led the Pelicans in rebounding. His playing time has typically hovered in the mid-20's this season, but he tends to be efficient with the few touches he does receive on the offensive side of the ball. Valanciunas is averaging 13.4 points on 56.8 percent shooting, 9.5 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.0 blocks over 25.1 minutes per game this season.
Mar 1, 2024
Nears double-double in blowout win
Valanciunas recorded 15 points (7-11 FG, 1-1 3Pt), nine rebounds, three assists and two blocks over 26 minutes during Friday's 129-102 win over the Pacers.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas led all Pelicans players in rebounds while ending as one of three players with 15 or more points and coming up one board shy of a double-double over just 25 minutes in a blowout victory. Valanciunas bounced back after struggling his last two outings, reaching double figures in scoring for the first time in three games.
Feb 26, 2024
Pulls down 17 rebounds Sunday
Valanciunas contributed 14 points (7-15 FG, 0-3 3Pt), 17 rebounds and one block over 28 minutes during Sunday's 114-106 loss to the Bulls.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas is one of the most consistent centers in The Association and can record a double-double every time he steps on the court, as has been the case in each of his last three appearances. Even though the veteran can also produce on offense, he has a secondary role in the Pelicans' scheme, and that limits his fantasy upside a bit. Still, he's having another solid year and is just 0.4 rebounds per game shy of averaging a double-double for the fifth campaign in a row.
Feb 23, 2024
Strong double-double in win
Valanciunas provided 20 points (9-12 FG, 2-2 3Pt), 14 rebounds, three assists and one steal in 27 minutes during Thursday's 127-105 victory over Houston.
ANALYSIS
The Pelicans dominated this game from start to finish, and Valanciunas made a huge impact on both ends of the court. The veteran big man has recorded three double-doubles over his last seven appearances, a span in which he's putting up 11.4 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 0.7 blocks per contest in that stretch.
Feb 9, 2024
Good to go
Valanciunas (calf) will play in Friday's game versus the Lakers, Christian Clark of The New Orleans Times-Picayunereports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas left Wednesday's game against the Clippers early and was carrying a questionable tag prior to this update, but his availability will be a big boost to the team. In addition to Valanciunas, Zion Williamson (foot) also has the green light.
Feb 8, 2024
Questionable for Friday
Valanciunas (calf) is questionable for Friday's game against the Lakers.
ANALYSIS
JV was forced out of Wednesday's game after tweaking his calf, which resulted in Larry Nance starting the second half. If Valanciunas can't give it a go Friday, Nance would likely enter the starting lineup and would make for a quality fantasy target.
Feb 7, 2024
Won't return Wednesday
Valanciunas (right calf contusion) has been ruled out for the remainder of Wednesday's game against the Clippers. He'll finish the game with eight points (3-3 FG, 2-2 FT), two rebounds, an assist and a steal during 11 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas sustained a bruised right calf in the first half during a collision with Brandon Ingram and will not return. Larry Nance drew the second half start in Valanciunas' place and should continue to hold down most of the center minutes while Cody Zeller could sneak into the rotation. Valanciunas' next chance to play will come Friday against the Lakers.
Feb 7, 2024
Goes to locker room
Valanciunas went to the locker room during Wednesday's game against the Clippers with a right knee injury, Mark Medina of NBA.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas collided with Brandon Ingram and went down holding his right knee. While he was able to walk back to the locker room on his own, Valanciunas should be considered questionable to return.
Feb 6, 2024
Cruises to double-double
Valanciunas amassed 10 points (4-14 FG, 2-2 FT), 12 rebounds and three assists over 20 minutes during Monday's 138-100 win over the Raptors.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas notched his 26th double-double of the season Monday, which ranks 11th league-wide. New Orleans led by 19 at halftime and never looked back, but Valanciunas was compelled to fire away in the lopsided victory, matching his sixth-highest shot volume of the season. He will look to balance his output with efficiency in Wednesday's game against the Clippers.
Feb 1, 2024
Double-doubles in win
Valanciunas supplied 25 points (10-15 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 5-9 FT), 14 rebounds, two assists and one block in 33 minutes during Wednesday's 110-99 victory over the Rockets.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas scored at least 20 points for the first time in the past three weeks, taking advantage of the fact Zion Williamson (foot) was on the sideline. Prior to Wednesday, he had been putting up serviceable numbers, sitting just inside the top 120 over the past two weeks. He remains a must-roster player but managers should temper their expectations when the Pelicans are healthy.
Jan 24, 2024
Finishes with double-double
Valanciunas produced 17 points (7-13 FG, 1-5 3Pt, 2-4 FT), 12 rebounds and three assists in 23 minutes during Tuesday's 153-124 win over Utah.
ANALYSIS
The Pelicans ran away with Tuesday's victory, and Valanciunas finished the game with his second consecutive double-double. He's posted double-doubles in six of his 11 appearances this month, averaging 12.5 points, 9.5 rebounds and 2.1 assists in 23.0 minutes per game.
Jan 14, 2024
Helps catalyze victory
Valanciunas posted 14 points (4-6 FG, 6-9 FT), 12 rebounds, seven assists and two blocks in 28 minutes during Saturday's 118-108 victory over the Mavericks.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas was efficient and stepped up as a facilitator with CJ McCollum (ankle), Brandon Ingram (Achilles), Trey Murphy (knee) and Zion Williamson (rest) inactive. His seven assists matched a season high, while his two-way energy was impactful in a game where New Orleans successfully fended off runs from Dallas throughout the second half. Saturday marked his 21st double-double of the season.
Jan 11, 2024
Leads way in rout of Warriors
Valanciunas supplied 21 points (9-13 FG, 2-3 3Pt, 1-2 FT), nine rebounds, two assists, one block and two steals over 21 minutes during Wednesday's 141-105 win over Golden State.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas played just 21 minutes, but that was enough to pace New Orleans in both points and boards in an easy victory. The big man was efficient from the field and even knocked down a pair of triples, the seventh time this season he's hit multiple three-pointers in a game. Valanciunas hasn't played more than 23 minutes since the turn of the new year, but he's still managed to notch three double-doubles over five games in that span.
Jan 6, 2024
Notches double-double in loss
Valanciunas registered 13 points (6-12 FG, 1-1 3Pt), 11 rebounds, one assist and one block across 23 minutes during Friday's 111-95 loss to the Clippers.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas registered his second double-double in his last three games. He was also the leading scorer for the Pelicans in Friday's loss, in a game when Zion Williamson left in the second half with a right leg contusion. Valanciunas is averaging 14.7 points and 9.7 assists this season, but he hasn't played 30-plus minutes since Dec. 26 as he's split time in the front court with Larry Nance.
Jan 2, 2024
Double-double in win
Valanciunas finished Tuesday's 112-85 win over the Nets with 11 points (5-5 FG, 1-1 3Pt), 12 rebounds, one block and one steal over 20 minutes.
ANALYSIS
It was Valanciunas' first double-double since Dec. 26 and his 18th on the year. He had a productive December when he averaged 15.8 points on 58.8 percent shooting, 10.9 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game. Valanciunas' minutes will likely go down with Larry Nance back after missing 13 games with a right rib fracture, but the former should still provide solid fantasy production, especially with his rebounding.
Dec 29, 2023
Role declines in Nance's return
Valanciunas contributed six points (2-6 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 2-2 FT), four rebounds, one assist and one block over 23 minutes during Thursday's 112-105 win over the Jazz.
ANALYSIS
Thursday's performance ended an eight-game streak of double-digit scoring for Valanciunas -- a stretch where he had seven double-doubles. Both his minutes and his usage took a hit with Larry Nance (ribs) back in the rotation, the latter playing 25 minutes. Nance has dealt with injury woes for much of his career, but when available, he's a more versatile option at center than Valanciunas and arguably fits better with Zion Williamson. Fantasy managers should keep an eye on Valanciunas' minutes in the near future to see how coach Willie Green decides to operate.
Dec 23, 2023
Returns to locker room
Valanciunas (leg) is back on the bench after briefly exiting Saturday's game against the Rockets, Will Guillory of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas departed the game in the first quarter, but he returned to the bench shortly after being assessed in the locker room and will be available the rest of the way.
Dec 23, 2023
Heads to locker room Saturday
Valanciunas headed to the locker room in the first quarter of Saturday's game against the Rockets due to an undisclosed injury, Christian Clark of The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.
ANALYSIS
The loss of Valanciunas could be huge for the Pelicans, as they're quite thin when it comes to their frontcourt depth. If that's the case, then Jeremiah Robinson-Earl would be in line for a bigger role against Houston.
Dec 21, 2023
Available to play Thursday
Valanciunas (illness) is available to face the Cavaliers on Thursday.
ANALYSIS
The Pelicans will be shorthanded in the frontcourt Thursday, but having Valanciunas and Herbert Jones (illness) available will be a huge boost for the team on both ends of the court. Valanciunas has been a regular starter for the Pelicans this season and should remain in that role given his availability. He's averaging 18.0 points and 12.2 rebounds per game over his last nine games while posting eight double-doubles in that span.
Dec 21, 2023
Considered game-time decision
Valanciunas (illness) is considered a game-time decision for Thursday's matchup against the Cavaliers, Christian Clark of The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas is officially questionable for Thursday's game due to a non-COVID illness, and the Pelicans will presumably wait to see how he feels after pregame warmups before determining his status. If he's unavailable, Jeremiah Robinson-Earl is a candidate to see more playing time.
Dec 20, 2023
Deemed questionable for Thursday
Valanciunas is questionable for Thursday's game against the Cavaliers due to a non-COVID illness.
ANALYSIS
Several players on the Pelicans are dealing with non-COVID illnesses ahead of Thursday's matchup, and Valanciunas' status for the game is in question. He's been on a tear recently with double-doubles in each of his last five appearances, but Cody Zeller (ankle) and Jeremiah Robinson-Earl could see an uptick in playing time if Valanciunas is forced to miss his first game of the season.
Dec 18, 2023
Strong double-double Sunday
Valanciunas finished with 15 points (6-13 FG, 1-4 3Pt, 2-3 FT), 16 rebounds, three assists, one block and one steal in 23 minutes during Sunday's 146-110 win over the Spurs.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas endured a slow start to the season but has bounced back admirably here, and he's been one of the most productive big men in the Western Conference over the last two weeks since he has seven double-doubles over his last eight outings. The veteran big man is up to 14 double-doubles in the campaign and should continue playing a prominent role on both ends of the court for New Orleans going forward.
Dec 14, 2023
Big double-double in win
Valanciunas registered 16 points (6-9 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 3-4 FT), 18 rebounds, three assists, one block and one steal across 33 minutes during Wednesday's 142-122 win over Washington.
ANALYSIS
The 18 boards were a season high for Valanciunas, while the double-double was his fifth in the last six games and 12th of the year in 25 contests. The veteran center had a bit of a slow start to the campaign on the glass and is still averaging below 10 boards a game for the first time since 2018-19, but over his last 12 games he's delivered 14.5 points, 10.4 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.0 blocks a night.
Dec 12, 2023
Top rebounder in double-double game
Valanciunas registered 14 points (5-9 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 4-7 FT), 13 rebounds, four assists, two blocks and two steals over 35 minutes during Monday's 121-107 win over Minnesota.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas led all players in Monday's game in rebounds while tallying team-best marks in steals and blocks in a double-double performance. Valanciunas has recorded a double-double in 12 games this season, including in four of his last five outings.
Dec 5, 2023
Notches double-double in victory
Valanciunas posted 18 points (7-11 FG, 4-4 FT) and 11 rebounds in 29 minutes before fouling out of Monday's 127-117 victory over Sacramento.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas led all Pelicans in rebounds and ended as one of six players with a double-digit point total en route to a double-double performance. Valanciunas has hauled in 10 or more rebounds in 11 games this season, finishing with a double-double in 10 of those outings. Valanciunas has posted a double-double in three straight games and in four of his last five contests.
Dec 2, 2023
Dominates down low in victory
Valanciunas chipped in 24 points (9-12 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 6-7 FT), 12 rebounds, one assist, two blocks and one steal in 31 minutes during Friday's 121-106 win over the Spurs.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas was the only player on either team to reach the 20-point mark in the contest, and he did so on a healthy 9-for-12 shooting line. The big man added a game-high 12 boards to notch his eighth double-double of the campaign. Valanciunas has seen his scoring output drop overall this season, but he's been impressive over his past two games, averaging 21.5 points while shooting 81.0 percent (17-of-21) from the field.
Nov 30, 2023
Registers 19 points in victory
Valanciunas produced 19 points (8-9 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 3-3 FT), six rebounds and three assists across 32 minutes during Wednesday's 124-114 win over Philadelphia.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas received a bit of a break when 76ers center Joel Embiid (illness) was ruled out shortly before the beginning of the game, resulting in 6-foot-8 Marcus Morris starting in his place. Valanciunas took advantage with a nearly perfect shooting effort from the field, which led to his highest scoring total in his past six games. The big man's stats have been down overall this season, but he's still producing useful fantasy numbers with 13.4 points, 8.8 boards, 2.5 assists and 1.3 blocks per game while shooting 55.2 percent from the field and 80.8 percent from the free-throw line.
Nov 23, 2023
Double-doubles in win
Valanciunas had 15 points (6-9 FG, 3-4 FT), 11 rebounds and two assists in 28 minutes during Wednesday's 117-112 victory over Sacramento.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas notched his third straight double-double but didn't record a block for the first time since Nov. 8. Over his past seven appearances, the veteran big man has averaged 15.6 points, 9.3 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 2.1 blocks in 26.4 minutes per game.
Nov 21, 2023
Comes close to triple-double
Valanciunas finished Monday's 129-93 victory over the Kings with 10 points (3-4 FG, 4-4 FT), 13 rebounds, seven assists, three blocks and one steal in 21 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas didn't have many touches on offense, but he was extremely effective while making his presence felt on both ends of the court. The veteran big man ended just three assists away from a triple-double and also notched multiple blocks for the fifth time across his last six appearances. Valanciunas might not be the dominant rim presence he once was, but he remains a productive asset in most fantasy formats, particularly in category-based leagues.
Nov 19, 2023
Huge double-double in loss
Valanciunas tallied 26 points (10-15 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 6-6 FT), 11 rebounds, three assists, three blocks and one steal in 30 minutes during Saturday's 121-120 loss to Minnesota.
ANALYSIS
With Zion Williamson taking the night off for rest purposes, Valanciunas was called upon to do more of the heavy lifting on the offensive end. He ended with a season-high 26 points, adding multiple blocks for the fourth time in the past five games. He is currently putting up top-50 value across the first month of the season. There is a chance this regresses as the Pelicans get healthy, making this a prime sell-high opportunity for managers.
Nov 18, 2023
Goes for 22 points in win
Valanciunas had 22 points (10-18 FG, 1-3 3Pt, 1-3 FT), eight rebounds, three assists and one block in 34 minutes during Friday's 115-110 win over the Nuggets.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas came just one point shy of tying his season-high scoring mark, but he's not the steady double-double threat he was in previous seasons since he's had to adjust to a secondary role on offense, particularly when both Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson are healthy. Valanciunas only has three double-doubles across 12 outings.
Nov 13, 2023
Puts up double-double
Valanciunas finished with 15 points (6-11 FG, 3-5 3Pt), 10 rebounds, three assists and two blocks over 21 minutes during Sunday's 136-124 loss to Dallas.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has been relegated to a secondary role on offense as long as he shares the court with Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson, but he can still find ways to produce and impact the game. The veteran big man only has three double-doubles this season, but he has scored at least 15 points in back-to-back contests, something he hadn't done since a back-to-back set on Nov. 1 and Nov. 2.
Nov 3, 2023
Double-double against Pistons
Valanciunas posted 23 points (9-16 FG, 2-3 3Pt, 3-4 FT), 13 rebounds, five assists and three blocks across 33 minutes during Thursday's 125-116 win over Detroit.
ANALYSIS
It's the second double-double in five games for the veteran center, and Valanciunas produced a season-high scoring performance in the absence of Zion Williamson (rest) and Brandon Ingram (knee). The three rejections were also a season high for JV, and after averaging a career-low 0.7 blocks a game in 2022-23, he appears to be focused on protecting the rim better -- he's collected at least one block in four of the Pelicans' five contests, and his 1.4 blocks per game would be a career high if he can keep it up.
Nov 2, 2023
Misses out on double-double
Valanciunas recorded 19 points (6-10 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 6-7 FT), nine rebounds, one assist, one block and one steal across 21 minutes during Wednesday's 110-106 victory over the Thunder.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas posted a season-high 19 points in Wednesday's win. While he narrowly missed out on a double-double, the veteran big man tallied his first steal of 2023-24. Valanciunas has also expanded his range this season, converting 36.4 of his 2.8 three-point attempts per game across his first four appearances.
Oct 25, 2023
Posts double-double in win
Valanciunas registered 12 points (4-7 FG, 2-4 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 12 rebounds, one assist and one block in 29 minutes during Wednesday's 111-104 win over the Grizzlies.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has averaged a double-double in points and rebounds in each of the last four years and continued that trend in the Pelicans' season opener. He also continued to show his willingness to shoot from beyond the arc and his three-point attempts will be something to monitor over the course over the regular season. The Pelicans will look to continue their winning ways Saturday when they host the Knicks.
Oct 18, 2023
Average outing Tuesday
Valanciunas finished with 10 points (5-9 FG, 0-2 3Pt) and six rebounds across 21 minutes in Tuesday's 104-92 preseason win over the Magic.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas can get the job done on both ends of the court and is able to shoulder a more significant responsibility on offense if needed, but given he'll share the court with Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum, Valanciunas is expected to hold a secondary role on offense. He's still a player who can rack up double-doubles with ease, but his fantasy upside will be limited due to his scoring limits.
Oct 9, 2023
Expected to play in opener
Valanciunas is expected to play under 20 minutes during Tuesday's preseason opener against the Magic, Will Guillory of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Head coach Willie Green said all of the Pelicans' starters are expected to suit up and play under 20 minutes, so it should be a good opportunity for the first unit to develop some chemistry before the regular season. Valanciunas has averaged a double-double in four consecutive campaigns with two different teams (Memphis and New Orleans). However, the veteran big man might see a slight dropoff in production if Zion Williamson can play an entire season, though he should still play heavy minutes as the team's starting center in 2023-24.
Apr 13, 2023
Dominant with double-double
Valanciunas racked up 16 points (7-9 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 1-2 FT), 18 rebounds and three assists over 30 minutes during Wednesday's 123-118 play-in game loss to the Thunder.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas took control of the interior in the loss despite suffering a foot injury that forced him to miss three key minutes in the fourth quarter. Valanciunas finished a successful second season with the Pelicans, averaging 14.1 points and 10.2 rebounds per game over 79 contests. Valanciunas has now averaged a double-double for four consecutive seasons.
Apr 8, 2023
Rebound machine in second half
Valanciunas ended Friday's 113-105 victory over New York with eight points (3-7 FG, 2-2 FT), 12 rebounds, one assist and three blocks across 25 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas registered just three points, one rebound and a block over the first two quarters as the Pelicans held onto a three-point lead heading into the break. The center was a force on the glass in the second half, however, grabbing 11 rebounds to give him a game-high 12 boards on the night while also finishing with three blocks for the second game in a row. Valanciunas has recorded 12 rebounds in two of four games this month but has also failed to score in double figures in two straight.
Apr 6, 2023
Limited impact Wednesday
Valanciunas had four points (1-2 FG, 2-2 FT), six rebounds, an assist, a steal and three blocks across 19 minutes in Wednesday's overtime win over the Grizzlies.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas was limited by foul trouble and only logged 19 minutes Wednesday, his lowest mark since a March 16 contest in which he only played 16 minutes. Valanciunas also saw the end of a 13-game streak with double-digit scoring run with this subpar outing.
Apr 2, 2023
Submits another double-double
Valanciunas recorded 23 points (10-18 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 12 rebounds and one block across 28 minutes in Saturday's 122-114 win over the Clippers.
ANALYSIS
Though his numbers are mostly down across the board compared to a season ago, Valanciunas is picking the right time to raise his production for fantasy managers. Dating back to March 17, Valanciunas has played 25 minutes or fewer on just two of his nine appearances and is averaging 17.6 points (on 57.4 percent shooting from the field and 84.6 percent shooting from the free-throw line), 14.4 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.2 blocks. With four games left in the regular season and Zion Williamson (hamstring) unlikely to be back for any of those contests, Valanciunas should be poised for a big finish as the Pelicans' clear top option in the frontcourt.
Mar 31, 2023
Double-doubles in win
Valanciunas totaled 15 points (5-11 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 5-5 FT), 12 rebounds, four assists and one block over 25 minutes during Thursday's 107-88 victory over the Nuggets.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas posted his eight double-double over his past 10 appearances. During that stretch, he's averaged 15.6 points, 13.6 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.3 blocks while shooting 57.4 percent from the field, and the Pelicans are 7-3.
Mar 28, 2023
Grabs season-high 21 boards
Valanciunas had 10 points (4-6 FG, 2-4 FT), 21 rebounds and two blocks across 30 minutes during Monday's 124-90 victory over Portland.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas grabbed a season-high 21 rebounds and recorded his sixth straight double-double. During that stretch, the talented big man has averaged 18.2 points and 16.1 rebounds.
Mar 26, 2023
17/13 double-double in lopsided win
Valanciunas produced 17 points (8-18 FG, 1-2 3Pt), 13 rebounds, four assists, one block and one steal over 32 minutes during Saturday's 131-110 victory over the Clippers.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas extended his double-double streak to five games, even though his shot conversion rate was well below his season average of 55.1 percent. Valanciunas' effort in the paint inches him ever closer to a double-double average for the season. Over 71 games, the big man has averaged 14.4 points and 9.9 rebounds.
Mar 24, 2023
Fourth straight double-double
Valanciunas finished Thursday's 115-96 victory over the Hornets with 20 points (10-16 FG, 0-1 3Pt), 19 rebounds, three assists and one steal over 34 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas grabbed a season-high 19 boards and was efficient from the field en route to 20 points, marking his fourth straight double-double. During that stretch, the talented forward has averaged 20.5 points, 15.8 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.5 blocks in 32.3 minutes.
Mar 20, 2023
Strong double-double in win
Valanciunas closed with 21 points (6-12 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 8-9 FT), 12 rebounds, two assists, two blocks and one steal over 33 minutes during Sunday's 117-107 victory over the Rockets.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas finished with at least 20 points, 12 rebounds and two blocks for a second straight game and notched his fourth double-double over his past seven appearances. During that stretch, the talented big man is averaging 13.7 points, 9.6 rebounds, 1.6 blocks and 1.4 assists in 22.7 minutes with 62/43/88 shooting splits.
Mar 18, 2023
Strong double-double Friday
Valanciunas totaled 22 points (10-16 FG, 0-2 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 17 rebounds and four blocks over 34 minutes during Friday's 114-112 loss to Houston.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas had his best game in over two months, scoring at least 20 points for the first time since mid-January, adding a season-high four blocks. After seeing his minutes scale back over the past week, this was certainly a performance that could earn him some more trust moving forward. If he was dropped in your league, now would be the time to grab him, just to see whether he can build on this performance.
Mar 13, 2023
Solid two-way play Sunday
Valanciunas had 11 points (5-8 FG, 1-1 FT), 12 rebounds, two assists and two blocks across 21 minutes during Sunday's 127-110 victory over the Trail Blazers.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas' numbers will not jump out of the stat sheet, but he's one of the most reliable two-way big men in the league and is a double-double threat every time he steps on the court. He has five double-doubles over his last eight outings and is averaging 12.2 points with 9.7 rebounds in just 24.0 minutes per game since the start of February.
Mar 9, 2023
Barely plays despite starting
Valanciunas notched four rebounds, two assists and one block over seven minutes during Wednesday's 113-106 victory over Dallas.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas recorded five turnovers and picked up two early fouls Thursday, causing him to barely play the remainder of the game. New Orleans found much more success with Jaxson Hayes, who posted a plus-11 point differential. However, this is likely a one-off for Valanciunas, as he was averaging 12.6 points, 10.0 rebounds and 2.2 assists in 29.4 minutes across his previous five appearances and hadn't played fewer than minutes since Jan. 28.
Mar 7, 2023
Posts double-double in return
Valanciunas ended Monday's 123-108 loss to the Kings with 19 points (9-11 FG, 1-1 3Pt), 12 rebounds, three assists and one block across 32 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas missed each of New Orleans' previous two games with a calf injury, but he was able to exceed his season average with 32 minutes Monday. The big man finished with his 33rd double-double of the campaign, four of which have come over his past five games. During that span, he's averaging 12.6 points, 10.0 rebounds and 2.2 assists while shooting 60.5 percent from the field.
Mar 6, 2023
Cleared to play
Valanciunas (calf) will play Monday against the Kings.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas will return to action after missing his team's last two matchups due to a left calf injury. He was averaging 11.6 points, 9.6 rebounds and 1.7 assists in his last seven games prior to going down with the injury.
Mar 5, 2023
Questionable Monday
Valanciunas (calf) is questionable for Monday's game against the Kings, Jim Eichenhofer of the Pelicans' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has been dealing with a left calf contusion that has forced him to miss the last two matchups, but he fully participated in practice Sunday and will have a chance to return to game action a day later. However, the Pelicans plan to monitor him Monday before determining his final status.
Mar 5, 2023
Fully practices Sunday
Valanciunas (calf) was a full participant in Sunday's practice session, Christian Clark of The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas missed the last two games due to a left calf contusion, but his full participation in practice is encouraging. The team will monitor him ahead of Monday's game against Sacramento, but it's certainly possible he'll be able to return to game action.
Mar 3, 2023
Officially out Friday
Valanciunas (calf) has been ruled out Friday against the Warriors, Christian Clark of NOLA News reports.
ANALYSIS
The Pelicans are off until March 6 after Friday's game, but there is no guarantee Valanciunas is ready for that one since he was carrying a doubtful tag before this update. When Valanciunas sat out Feb. 27 against the Blazers, Willy Hernangomez drew the start and played 20 minutes, but Jaxson Hayes had more success off the bench despite seeing fewer minutes.
Mar 2, 2023
Doubtful for Friday
Valanciunas (calf) is considered doubtful for Friday's matchup against Golden State, Jim Eichenhofer of the Pelicans' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas is still dealing with a left calf contusion and likely is on track to sit out again Friday. With Larry Nance (ankle) ruled out for a couple of weeks, Willy Hernangomez and Jaxson Hayes should continue to see increased roles. If Valanciunas can't play Friday, his next chance to see the floor will be Monday against the Kings.
Mar 1, 2023
Ruled out Wednesday
Valanciunas will sit out Wednesday's matchup against the Trail Blazers, Christian Clark of The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas was initially tabbed questionable with a left calf contusion and will ultimately be held out of Wednesday's contest due to the issue. With Larry Nance (ankle) also out, Willy Hernangomez and Jaxson Hayes should handle the majority of the center minutes. Valanciunas' next chance to play will come Friday against Golden State.
Feb 28, 2023
Questionable Wednesday
Valanciunas (left calf contusion) is questionable Wednesday against the Blazers, the Pelicans announced.
ANALYSIS
This is a tough blow for New Orleans as they already have several key players injured. If Valanciunas is unable to play, both Jaxson Hayes and Willy Hernangomez would make for intriguing fantasy options.
Feb 24, 2023
Quiet double-double in loss
Valanciunas closed with 12 points (4-8 FG, 4-6 FT), 12 rebounds and two assists over 29 minutes during Thursday's 115-110 loss to the Raptors.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas recorded his second straight double-double, although it came with very little fanfare. In what has been a rough season to date, Valanciunas currently sits outside the top 120 in nine-category formats, a far cry from his last three campaigns in which he finished as a top 50 player. He remains a viable asset but only offers upside in rebounds and field goal percentage.
Feb 14, 2023
Efficient, but quiet night
Valanciunas closed Monday's 103-100 victory over the Thunder with 14 points (5-6 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 4-5 FT), eight rebounds and two assists across 25 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas only missed one shot Monday, but he only got six looks. The seven-footer simply wasn't involved in the offense as Brandon Ingram carried the load. On his limited second-half touches, the Thunder showed a double team in the post. His final statline was still solid with 14 points and eight rebounds, despite the low usage. Valanciunas gives fantasy owners good rebound numbers and decent point production, but he has just one steal and eight blocks in the last 20 games.
Feb 8, 2023
Double-double in Tuesday's win
Valanciunas accumulated 16 points (8-10 FG), 14 rebounds, one assist and one block over 26 minutes during Tuesday's 116-107 victory over Atlanta.
ANALYSIS
After sitting out New Orleans' game Feb. 5 due to a minor quadriceps issue, Valanciunas was back on the court and delivering his third straight double-double and 29th of the season, tying him with Milwaukee's Bobby Portis for sixth in the league. Since the beginning of January, JV is averaging 16.7 points, 10.7 boards and 1.4 assists a game while shooting 58.8 percent from the floor.
Feb 7, 2023
Available to play Tuesday
Valanciunas (quad) is available to play against the Hawks on Tuesday according to Pelicans PR.
ANALYSIS
This is a relief for fantasy managers, as Valanciunas' MRI came back clean and he only ended up missing a single game. His minutes have been pretty low with 21.8 per game over his last four appearances, but he's been productive with averages of 15.0 points, 9.0 rebounds and 2.5 assists in that span.
Feb 6, 2023
Probable for Tuesday
Valanciunas (quad) is probable for Tuesday's game against the Hawks.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas sat out the second game of a back-to-back on Sunday with some minor soreness in his quad, but it looks like he'll be back in action on Tuesday night, which will likely return Larry Nance to the second unit and Willy Hernangomez could drop from the rotation entirely.
Feb 5, 2023
Out Sunday
Valanciunas (quad) has been ruled out for Sunday's game versus Sacramento, Andrew Lopez of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
The good news is that the MRI on JV's injured quad came back clean, so it sounds like his absence from Sunday's game on the second leg of a back-to-back is mostly precautionary. Expect more burn for guys like Larry Nance, Jaxson Hayes and Willy Hernangomez with Valanciunas watching from the sidelines.
Feb 5, 2023
Listed as doubtful
Valanciunas is doubtful for Sunday's game against the Kings due to right quadriceps soreness, Jim Eichenhofer of the Pelicans' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas appeared to sustain a knee injury during Saturday's win over the Lakers, but he's being listed with a quad injury ahead of Sunday's contest. The talented big man will likely miss at least one game due to the issue, but the extent of his expected absence should become cleared when his MRI results return. In his absence, Larry Nance, Jaxson Hayes and Willy Hernangomez are candidates for increased roles in New Orleans' frontcourt.
Feb 4, 2023
Set for MRI Sunday
Valanciunas (knee) will undergo an MRI on Sunday to determine the full extent of his injury, Andrew Lopez of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Willie Green said Valanciunas will get an MRI on Sunday morning, and the team will announce an official update once those results are confirmed. Still, it's hard to imagine the veteran big man being available for Sunday's contest against the Kings. Valanciunas had no brace or crutches as he walked out, Andrew Lopez of ESPN.com reports, and that should be a good sign for the team. Valanciunas finished Saturday's win over the Lakers with 18 points (9-13 FG, 0-1 3Pt), 14 rebounds and five assists over 24 minutes.
Feb 4, 2023
Exits Saturday's game
Valanciunas exited Saturday's game against the Lakers due to a right knee injury, Kyle Goon of The Orange County Register reports. He finished with 18 points (9-13 FG, 0-1 3Pt), 14 rebounds and five assists in 24 minutes.
ANALYSIS
The extent of Valanciunas' injury isn't immediately clear, but fantasy managers shouldn't be surprised if the big man sits out Sunday against the Kings. If that's the case, coach Willie Green could give more minutes to Larry Nance, Jaxson Hayes and Willy Hernangomez.
Feb 3, 2023
Another double-double
Valanciunas racked up 16 points (5-11 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 6-6 FT), 13 rebounds and two assists over 22 minutes during Thursday's 111-106 loss to the Mavericks.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas didn't have his best shooting performance, but he still posted an excellent stat line while recording his first double-double since Jan. 25. The veteran big man is averaging 16.6 points with 10.4 rebounds per game since the beginning of the new year, racking up 12 double-doubles across 17 contests in that span.
Jan 28, 2023
Ejected Saturday
Valanciunas was ejected from Saturday's game against the Wizards after committing a Flagrant 2 foul, Josh Robbins of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas will be an early exit for Saturday's tilt after elbowing Taj Gibson in the second quarter. He will finish scoreless (0-3 FG, 0-2 FT) with three rebounds, one assist and two turnovers in nine minutes of action. Willy Hernangomez and Larry Nance figure to pick up Valanciunas' vacated minutes.
Jan 26, 2023
Posts neat final line
Valanciunas ended Wednesday's 111-102 loss to the Timberwolves with 15 points (7-9 FG, 1-2 3Pt), 12 rebounds and one block in 29 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas was locked in from the field and locked up another double-double in the loss. Fantasy managers have to be pleased with the consistency that the big man has brought of late, as he's secured a double-double in six of his last seven contests while tallying a block in his last four.
Jan 22, 2023
Posts another double-double in loss
Valanciunas supplied 14 points (7-14 FG, 0-2 3Pt), 16 rebounds, one assist and one block in 25 minutes during Sunday's 100-96 loss to the Heat.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas led all players in Sunday's game in rebounds, finishing as the only player on either team to tally a double-double. Valanciunas has recorded a double-double in 10 of his last 11 outings, including in five straight games.
Jan 19, 2023
Shoots with efficiency
Valanciunas logged 18 points (8-11 FG, 2-3 FT) and 10 rebounds over 25 minutes during Wednesday's 124-98 loss to the Heat.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas enjoyed a strong shooting night by draining 72.7 percent of his field-goal tries along with a pair of free throws. He also secured his third straight double-double. The 30-year-old is averaging 19.8 points, 11.6 rebounds and 1.6 assists through nine January appearances.
Jan 14, 2023
Comes through with 33 points
Valanciunas closed Friday's 116-110 win over the Pistons with 33 points (12-15 FG, 1-3 3Pt, 8-10 FT), 16 rebounds, three assists and one block across 30 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas led his team in scoring by knocking down 80.0 percent of his field-goal attempts, and he also posted a massive night on the boards. He dominated on the defensive glass, where he grabbed 12 of his 16 boards. Valanciunas has now notched a double-double in six of his last seven matchups.
Jan 9, 2023
Fifth straight double-double
Valanciunas registered 27 points (10-15 FG, 7-8 FT), 12 rebounds and one assist over 28 minutes during Monday's 132-112 victory over Washington.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has seen more consistent usage over the past four games without Zion Williamson (hamstring) in the lineup. He's made 10 shots in each of the last two contests and is averaging a double-double in the month of January, with increases in both points (18.4) and rebounds (12.2). It's very possible that this continues as long as Williamson is out.
Jan 7, 2023
Available Saturday
Valanciuans (hand) is available for Saturday's game at Dallas, Christian Clark of The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas could be more involved than ever Saturday, as the Pelicans are down Zion Williamson (hamstring), Brandon Ingram (toe) and CJ McCollum (rest). Since the start of December, the center has averaged 14.0 points, 10.0 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 26.1 minutes.
Jan 7, 2023
Questionable Saturday
Valanciunas is questionable for Saturday's game versus Dallas due to a right hand sprain, Will Guillory of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas is questionable to miss his first game of the season Saturday. Jaxson Hayes and Willy Hernangomez will likely see extended minutes if he's unable to suit up.
Jan 5, 2023
Strong double-double in win
Valanciunas finished with 16 points (6-15 FG, 0-2 3Pt, 4-5 FT), 17 rebounds, two assists and one block in 32 minutes during Wednesday's 119-108 win over the Rockets.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas didn't have a good shooting performance, but he still recorded another double-double with at least 15 points and 15 rebounds -- it was the third time he accomplished that feat in the current campaign. The veteran big man has racked up 17 double-doubles on the season and remains a reliable double-double threat -- and fantasy performer -- for New Orleans.
Jan 3, 2023
Double-double with three blocks
Valanciunas notched 12 points (5-9 FG, 2-3 3Pt), 12 rebounds, one assist and three blocks over 28 minutes before fouling out of Monday's 120-111 loss to the 76ers.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas blocked multiple shots for the third straight game, bringing his combined total to eight blocks during that period. Given he has failed to block more than one shot in any game prior to this, managers should look at his defensive uptick as more of an outlier. The Pelicans are currently dealing with a slate of frontcourt injuries, meaning Valanciunas should be locked into significant minutes for the foreseeable future.
Jan 1, 2023
Fouls out in 22 minutes
Valanciunas fouled out of Saturday's 116-101 loss to the Grizzlies after recording six points (2-5 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 1-2 FT), six rebounds, three blocks and one steal in 22 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas battled foul trouble all night Saturday, ending after just 22 minutes. While he did manage four combined steals and blocks, his offensive output was basically non-existent. He currently sits as the 116th-ranked player in standard formats, although has been able to up his production over the past two weeks, putting up top-40 value. The Pelicans still have a couple of key pieces yet to return, meaning this could be a sell-high opportunity given what we saw from him earlier in the season.
Dec 29, 2022
Secures another double-double
Valanciunas closed Wednesday's 119-118 victory over Minnesota with 12 points (4-12 FG, 0-3 3Pt, 4-4 FT), 11 rebounds, two assists and one block across 29 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas didn't have his best shooting night, but he still managed to make an impact by notching his fourth double-double in five games. The big man has also shown his ability to protect the rim of late, as he's swatted away a shot in back-to-back appearances.
Dec 27, 2022
Ties season high with five assists
Valanciunas finished Monday's 113-93 win over the Pacers with 20 points (10-18 FG, 0-3 3Pt), 12 rebounds, five assists, one steal and one block in 29 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas notched his 300th career double-double in the resounding victory and did so while chipping in five dimes, matching his season high. The New Orleans offense ran through Valanciunas more often than usual while the team was down five rotation players Monday, but look for his paint touches and minutes to take a hit as soon as Wednesday's game against the Timberwolves, when all of Zion Williamson (rest), Dyson Daniels (illness) and Trey Murphy (illness) appear likely to return. The return of Williamson in particular could be damaging to Valanciunas, as head coach Willie Green often favors Larry Nance over Valanciunas as the team's crunch-time center due to the better spacing and defensive versatility he offers alongside Williamson.
Dec 23, 2022
Another double-double in victory
Valanciunas had 16 points (6-14 FG, 0-2 3Pt, 4-4 FT), 10 rebounds, one assist and one steal in 26 minutes during Thursday's 126-117 victory over the Spurs.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas led the Pelicans in rebounds en route to his second straight double-double. Valanciunas has tallied at least 15 points and 10 rebounds in 10 games this season.
Dec 20, 2022
Shines in loss to MIL
Valanciunas contributed 37 points (14-24 FG, 7-10 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 18 rebounds, five assists and one steal over 37 minutes during Monday's 128-119 loss to the Bucks.
ANALYSIS
Even though the Pelicans feature names such as Zion Williamson and CJ McCollum, it was Valanciunas who posted the biggest problems for the Bucks defense, and the veteran big man came close to tying his career-high mark in scoring while also looking active as a rebounder and playmaker. One of the best two-way big men in the league and a force to be reckoned with on offense when he gets enough touches, Valanciunas is averaging 13.7 points with 9.3 rebounds per game on the season, so chances are this game was an outlier rather than a norm going forward.
Dec 16, 2022
Slow night from field
Valanciunas registered six points (3-6 FG), nine rebounds, one assist and one block in 26 minutes during Thursday's 132-129 overtime loss to the Jazz.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas only attempted six shots in the contest, marking the second time he's tried six or fewer in the last three games. The veteran big man remains a reliable rebound machine, averaging 9.4 to go along with 11.0 points in the last five games, but his scoring can be a bit sporadic. Thanks to his field-goal efficiency (52.3 percent) and rebound volume, Valanciunas is a usable fantasy asset in many leagues, but his lack of contributions in other areas lowers his ceiling.
Dec 10, 2022
Struggles from field in win
Valanciunas finished with 12 points (4-16 FG, 0-3 3Pt, 4-4 FT) and 10 rebounds across 28 minutes during Friday's 128-117 win over the Suns.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas had a dreadful night shooting the ball, going 0-of-6 from the field in the first quarter before finishing the first half with just six points to go along with seven rebounds. He went just 1-of-4 in the second half, though still managed another six points after going 4-for-4 at the free-throw line to notch his second straight double-double. The Pelicans center now has 11 double-doubles on the season and four in his last five contests.
Dec 3, 2022
Feasts in win
Valanciunas contributed 21 points (8-11 FG, 1-2 3Pt, 4-4 FT), 11 rebounds, two assists and one block across 26 minutes during Friday's 117-99 win over the Spurs.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas was a matchup nightmare for San Antonio, scoring at ease over the Spurs' undersized lineups. Valanciunas still possesses volatility, but when he's incorporated Valanciunas remains on nightly double-double watch.
Dec 1, 2022
Another double-double in win
Valanciunas posted 16 points (6-12 FG, 2-5 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 13 rebounds and three assists across 26 minutes during Wednesday's 126-108 victory over Toronto.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas nearly had a double-double by halftime, scoring nine points on 4-of-8 shooting from the field to go along with 10 rebounds over the first two quarters. The Pelicans center added another seven points and three boards in the third quarter to give him 13 rebounds on the night, which led the game. Valanciunas has recorded a double-double in three of his last five games while shooting 63 percent from the field over that stretch.
Nov 29, 2022
Muted performance vs. OKC
Valanciunas closed Monday's 105-101 victory over Oklahoma City with eight points (3-6 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 10 rebounds and one assist in 20 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas' role has been inconsistent all season. The Pelicans are deep enough for coach Willie Green to pull the big man when he's not playing well, and small-ball lineups are on the table. In eight-category leagues, Valanciunas is having the second-worst season of his career, ranking 131st per game. Given that center is a position of scarcity and Valanciunas is no stranger to huge performances, he can't safely be dropped in 12-team formats. But fantasy managers shouldn't consider him an automatic start, either.
Nov 26, 2022
Minimal impact despite victory
Valanciunas tallied four points (2-5 FG, 0-1 3Pt), three rebounds and one assist in 17 minutes during Friday's 132-111 win over the Warriors.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas played his second-lowest minutes total of the season, as he picked up five fouls in just 17 minutes. Valanciunas's four turnovers also tied a season-high despite his limited playing time. The veteran big man could continue to see less action as Zion Williamson's return will likely cause the Pelicans that give their star forward better spacing.
Nov 22, 2022
Records double-double
Valanciunas amassed 10 points (4-4 FG, 2-5 FT), 13 rebounds and two assists over 23 minutes during Monday's 128-83 win over the Warriors.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas didn't have his best performance from the charity stripe, but he was perfect from the field and also contributed on the glass en route to his first double-double since Nov. 9. The veteran big man has seen a decrease in his overall numbers during the current month, though. He's averaging 11.3 points and 8.6 rebounds per game in November after putting up 16.7 points and 10.5 boards per contest in October.
Nov 19, 2022
Quiet in loss
Valanciunas accumulated ten points (5-7 FG, 0-1 FT), four rebounds and three assists across 21 minutes in Friday's 117-109 loss to th Celtics.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas is now averaging 13.4 points, 9.1 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 0.4 steals, 0.3 blocks and 0.5 triples across 23.6 minutes per game. He averaged 30.3 minutes for the Pelicans last year, so it looks like they are monitoring his workload a little more early on this season. As a result, his overall production no doubt will take a slight hit.
Nov 17, 2022
Back on track
Valanciunas closed Wednesday's 124-110 win over the Bulls with 22 points (8-13 FG, 2-3 3Pt, 4-4 FT), seven rebounds, two assists and one block over 27 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas had been held to 17 combined points over his last three games heading into Wednesday's matchup, but he erupted for 22 points on a strong shooting night. This is the second time this season he's found success against the Bulls, as he also poured in 21 points Nov. 9 in Chicago. The big man has had a slightly down first month of the season, at least by his recent standards, averaging 13.6 points, 9.4 rebounds and 2.1 assists on 50.7 percent from the field over 15 games.
Nov 16, 2022
Held in check against Memphis
Valanciunas finished Tuesday's 113-102 victory over the Grizzlies with two points (1-4 FG, 0-1 3Pt), three rebounds and two assists across 14 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas played a season-low 14 minutes during Tuesday's matchup and was unable to generate much production for the Pelicans. He committed four turnovers and also posted season-low marks in scoring and rebounds. The 30-year-old has displayed plenty of upside early in the season, but he's now been held to single-digit scoring totals in three consecutive games.
Nov 10, 2022
Records double-double Wednesday
Valanciunas scored 21 points (8-13 FG, 0-2 3Pt, 5-6 FT) while adding 13 rebounds, three assists and a steal across 30 minutes in Wednesday's 115-111 win over the Bulls.
ANALYSIS
On paper, Valanciunas should operate as New Orleans' fourth-best offensive threat behind CJ McCollum, Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson, but the veteran big man has managed to produce above that role of late. He's scored in double figures in three games in a row and has two double-doubles in that span. In fact, Valanciunas has five double-doubles across 11 outings in the current campaign, and he should remain a valuable fantasy alternative across all formats due to his two-way ability.
Nov 8, 2022
Efficient performance Monday
Valanciunas closed Monday's 129-122 loss to the Pacers with 14 points (7-9 FG), seven rebounds and two assists across 22 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Although Valanciunas' final stat line might not be eye-popping, he was extremely efficient -- he ended two boards shy of posting another double-double and only missed two shots from the field. Relegated to a secondary role on offense behind the likes of CJ McCollum, Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson, Valanciunas is still a solid fantasy performer across all formats and has four double-doubles across 10 appearances while averaging 14.4 points, 10.3 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game.
Nov 5, 2022
Stellar work on glass
Valanciunas closed Saturday's 124-121 overtime loss to the Hawks with 13 points (5-12 FG, 3-4 FT), 17 rebounds, one assist, one block and one steal in 26 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas notched his fourth double-double of the season with a strong showing Saturday night. He also recorded his first block since Oct. 25 against Dallas. Valanciunas shouldered his largest workload since Oct. 28, as he'd been limited to 24, 22 and 19 minutes in his last three starts prior to his double-double in Atlanta.
Oct 29, 2022
Posts double-double in loss
Valanciunas posted 25 points (11-16 FG, 3-3 FT), 10 rebounds, two assists and one steal over 31 minutes during Friday's 124-111 loss to Phoenix.
ANALYSIS
One of the best two-way players in the league and a solid double-double threat every time he steps on the court, Valanciunas has recorded at least 10 points and 10 rebounds in three of his five outings this season. Even though he holds a secondary role in an offensive scheme that includes Zion Williamson (hip), Brandon Ingram (concussion) and CJ McCollum, Valanciunas is averaging 17.8 points per game while shooting a decent 53.3 percent from the field.
Oct 24, 2022
Poor shooting in OT loss
Valanciunas had six points (2-11 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 2-2 FT), nine rebounds, three assists and a steal across 24 minutes in Sunday's overtime loss to the Jazz.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas started the season on a strong note and posted double-digit numbers in each of his first two appearances, but he wasn't able to repeat that here and was limited to his first single-digit scoring output of the campaign while also struggling from the field. He's not expected to hold a prominent role on offense as the season progresses, though, as the Pelicans also feature the likes of Zion Williamson (hip), CJ McCollum and Brandon Ingram (head) in the starting lineup on a regular basis.
Oct 22, 2022
Paves way with 30 points
Valanciunas supplied 30 points (8-11 FG, 1-3 3Pt, 13-14 FT), 17 rebounds, four assists, one block and one steal in 29 minutes during Friday's 124-112 victory over the Hornets.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas knocked down a team-high 13 shots from the charity stripe and turned in an efficient night. He's put up two double-doubles to begin the new campaign and should continue to see plenty of opportunities in the paint moving forward alongside Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson.
Oct 20, 2022
Strong double-double in win
Valanciunas finished Wednesday's 130-108 victory over the Nets with 15 points (6-13 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 13 rebounds, two assists and one block in 27 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas turned in a strong performance despite the plethora of talent on show, nabbing himself an early-season double-double. The return of Zion Williamson resulted in many managers overlooking Valanciunas, a move that could prove to be fruitful for those who were able to acquire him. While his ceiling is lower than last season, he should remain a solid source of traditional big-man stats, with the added ability of being able to stretch the floor when required.
Oct 14, 2022
Appears ready for regular season
Valanciunas registered 16 points (7-12 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 11 rebounds, seven assists and one block over 21 minutes during Friday's preseason game against the Hawks.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas looked strong in his final tune-up, logging a double-double in just over 21 minutes of work. The big man averaged 17.8 points and 11.4 rebounds along with 2.6 assists over 74 games a season ago and should be leaned on heavily yet again throughout the 2022 campaign.
Oct 14, 2022
Back in lineup Friday
Valanciunas will start Friday's preseason finale against the Hawks.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas sat out Wednesday's preseason game due to rest purposes, but he'll return to his usual starting spot Friday. The Lithuanian big man averaged 17.8 points and 11.4 rebounds last year -- his first with New Orleans.
Oct 12, 2022
Resting Wednesday
Valanciunas will rest for Wednesday's game against the Heat, Andrew Lopez of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
The veteran getting the night off should open up more time for Willy Hernangomez. We may also see some Zion Williamson at center lineups.
Apr 27, 2022
Another double-double
Valanciunas recorded 17 points (7-11 FG, 3-3 FT), 14 rebounds, three assists and one steal in Tuesday's 112-97 loss to Phoenix.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas collected his fourth double-double in his last five games and 54th of the season. The veteran big man is up to 15.4 points and 15.6 rebounds per contest through the first five games of the series.
Apr 25, 2022
Another monster line in Game 4 win
Valanciunas produced 26 points (9-15 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 7-11 FT), 15 rebounds and four assists over 33 minutes during Sunday's 118-103 victory over Phoenix.
ANALYSIS
The Pelicans were able to even the series at two games apiece, and Valanciunas was a major reason why. After a poor Game 3 (six points, 11 rebounds, four turnovers), the big man bounced back with one of his best stat lines of the entire season. He's now racked up double-digit rebounds in all four games, beginning with his monstrous 18-point, 25-rebound outing in Game 1.
Apr 20, 2022
Records double-double in win
Valanciunas finished with 10 points (4-9 FG, 0-2 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 13 rebounds, three assists and one steal over 26 minutes during Tuesday's 125-114 victory over the Suns.
ANALYSIS
Although he experienced significant regression in the scoring column, he did enough to prop up the frontcourt for the Pelicans. The standout center now has three double-doubles in his last four games, and he demonstrated his prolific upside with his 18/25 line in Game 1. His scoring dip should be no cause for concern, as Valanciunas is far and away the best frontcourt option for the squad.
Apr 18, 2022
Massive double-double in Game 1
Valanciunas notched 18 points (7-21 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 4-6 FT), 25 rebounds and three assists in 31 minutes during Sunday's 110-99 loss to Phoenix.
ANALYSIS
While the Pelicans' fourth-quarter comeback fell short thanks to a big-time effort from Chris Paul (17 fourth-quarter points), Valanciunas rewarded those who rostered him in DFS contests Sunday night. The big man struggled from the field and didn't offer anything on defense, but he pulled down a playoff-career-high 25 rebounds, including 13 offensive boards (also a career best). Managers shouldn't expect that level of glass-cleaning on a nightly basis, but Valanciunas did finish the regular season with 51 double-doubles in 74 games.
Apr 14, 2022
Records double-double Wednesday
Valanciunas closed with 22 points (9-14 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 4-8 FT), 14 rebounds, three assists, two blocks and one steal over 36 minutes during Wednesday's 113-103 victory over the Spurs.
ANALYSIS
The Spurs had a difficult time containing Valanciunas down low in the play-in contest, as the big man logged a game-high 14 boards and went 9-for-14 from the field en route to 22 points. He added a pair of blocks and a steal on defense. Valanciunas averaged 22.8 points and 13.3 rebounds in four games against the Clippers during the regular season, and he'll look to continue that success when the teams meet Friday with a playoff spot on the line.
Apr 12, 2022
Will be available Wednesday
Valanciunas (ankle) isn't listed on the injury report ahead of Wednesday's play-in matchup against the Spurs.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas was sidelined for the regular-season finale, but his absence was considered precautionary. Before suffering the initial injury against the Clippers on April 3, the big man had scored in double figures in 14 straight games and averaged 19.5 points, 12.0 rebounds and 3.2 assists in 30.1 minutes during that stretch.
Apr 10, 2022
Will be held out Sunday
Valanciunas (ankle) will not play Sunday against Golden State.
ANALYSIS
The big man will get the night off as the Pelicans prepare for a do-or-die play-in contest against the Spurs on Wednesday. Valanciunas' ankle issue limited him to just six minutes of action in Saturday night's blowout loss to Memphis.
Apr 7, 2022
Says he'll play Thursday
Valanciunas (ankle) said he'll play Thursday against the Trail Blazers, Andrew Lopez of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
The center will return following a one-game absence with an ankle injury, which will push Willy Hernangomez back to the bench. Over his past 10 appearances, he's averaged 18.0 points, 12.8 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.0 steals in 30.8 minutes.
Apr 6, 2022
Questionable vs. Blazers
Valanciunas (ankle) is questionable for Thursday's game against the Trail Blazers, Jamie Hudson of KOIN 6 News Portland reports.
ANALYSIS
The center's absence Tuesday against the Kings marked his first since Jan. 29, and he's at risk of sitting out again. If that's the case, Willy Hernangomez figures to draw another start.
Apr 5, 2022
Out at Sacramento
Valanciunas (ankle) is out Tuesday against the Kings, Jim Eichenhofer of the Pelicans' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
The center will miss his first game since Jan. 29. In his place, Willy Hernangomez will start.
Apr 4, 2022
Added to injury report
Valanciunas is questionable for Tuesday's game against Sacramento due to right ankle soreness.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas dealt with some foot soreness near the end of March, but it's unclear if this issue is somehow related. He'll likely need to prove his health in morning shootaround and pregame warmups to take the floor Tuesday evening.
Mar 31, 2022
Continues steady production
Valanciunas contributed 19 points (8-11 FG, 0-2 3Pt, 3-4 FT), 11 rebounds, four assists and four steals over 35 minutes during Wednesday's 117-107 victory over Portland.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas was questionable entering Wednesday with foot soreness, but he was able to suit up and finished second on the team with 35 minutes. The big man not only extended his double-double streak to nine games, he also set a season high with four steals. Valanciunas came up big for New Orleans in March, averaging 18.5 points, 11.7 boards, 2.8 assists, 0.9 thefts and 0.7 blocks over 15 contests.
Mar 30, 2022
Ready to go Wednesday
Valanciunas (foot) is available for Wednesday's game against the Trail Blazers.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas was questionable with foot soreness and will once again play through the injury. The 29-year-old has averaged 20.6 points, 14.4 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 1.0 blocks in 32.4 minutes across the past five games.
Mar 29, 2022
Questionable at Portland
Valanciunas (foot) is questionable for Wednesday's game against the Trail Blazers.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas was also questionable for Sunday's game against the Lakers but ended up seeing 37 minutes and posting 19 points, 12 boards, three assists, one steal and one block. That said, if he sits out this time, more run could be in store for Willy Hernangomez, Jaxson Hayes and Larry Nance (knee).
Mar 28, 2022
Double-double streak at eight
Valanciunas chipped in 19 points (7-13 FG, 5-6 FT), 12 rebounds, three assists, one block and one steal across 37 minutes during Sunday's 116-108 victory over the Lakers.
ANALYSIS
That's the eighth straight double-double for Valanciunas, who dominated his matchup against Dwight Howard on Sunday. JV is averaging 21.0 points, 13.3 boards, 3.5 assists, 0.9 blocks, 0.8 steals and 0.8 threes over that stretch, and his hot streak has been a big factor in the Pelicans remaining alive for a spot in the play-in tournament.
Mar 27, 2022
Good to go Sunday
Valanciunas (foot) will be available Sunday against the Lakers.
ANALYSIS
All three of Valanciunas, Brandon Ingram (hamstring) and CJ McCollum (ankle) will be available as the Pelicans finish out a back-to-back. Valanciunas finished Saturday's loss to the Spurs with 18 points, 11 rebounds, six assists and one block for his seventh consecutive double-double.
Mar 27, 2022
Questionable with foot soreness
Valanciunas is questionable for Sunday's game against the Lakers due to soreness in his right foot, Will Guillory of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas delivered a double-double during Saturday's loss to the Spurs with 18 points (7-12 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 3-5 FT), 11 rebounds, six assists and one block in 29 minutes, but he apparently tweaked his foot during the contest. Willy Hernangomez is the likely candidate to start at center for New Orleans if Valanciunas is ruled out Sunday.
Mar 27, 2022
Double-double in loss to Spurs
Valanciunas amassed 18 points (7-12 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 3-5 FT), 11 rebounds, six assists and one block in 29 minutes during Saturday's 107-103 loss to the Spurs.
ANALYSIS
In a battle of former Raptor centers, Valanciunas and Jacob Poeltl both delivered solid numbers, but the rest of the Spurs gave their big man more help. Valanciunas extended his double-double streak to seven games with the performance, and he's averaging 21.3 points, 13.4 boards, 3.6 assists, 0.9 blocks and 0.9 threes over that stretch.
Mar 25, 2022
Big double-double in win
Valanciunas notched 16 points (5-12 FG, 0-4 3Pt, 6-6 FT), 19 rebounds, two assists, one block and one steal over 34 minutes during Thursday's 126-109 victory over the Bulls.
ANALYSIS
The double-double was his sixth straight and 46th of the season, leaving Valanciunas four shy of establishing a new career high while tying him for second in the NBA in that category alongside Rudy Gobert and Domantas Sabonis. Valanciunas is averaging 21.8 points, 13.8 boards, 3.2 assists, 0.8 steals and 0.8 blocks over that six-game stretch as he wraps up an impressive first season with the Pelicans and tries to make sure they don't fall out of a spot in the play-in tournament.
Mar 21, 2022
Another huge all-around night
Valanciunas produced 24 points (11-18 FG, 1-2 3Pt, 1-1 FT), 18 rebounds, five assists, two blocks and one steal across 29 minutes during Monday's 106-103 loss to Charlotte.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has been unstoppable both in the paint and on the boards, racking up five straight double-doubles. The big man's 18 boards were his most since Feb. 17 against Dallas, when he also secured 18 rebounds in 34 minutes of action. Valanciunas is averaging 18.6 points and 11.2 rebounds so far in March (11 games).
Mar 21, 2022
Another double-double
Valanciunas logged 26 points (10-16 FG, 1-2 3Pt, 5-6 FT), 12 rebounds, four assists and one steal across 33 minutes during Sunday's 117-112 win over the Hawks.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas posted his fourth double-double in a row and his 10th over the past 13 games. During that stretch, the big man has averaged 18.0 points, 11.5 rebounds and 2.2 assists in 27.9 minutes per game.
Mar 19, 2022
Posts double-double in 21 minutes
Valanciunas produced 16 points (7-11 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 1-2 FT), 12 rebounds and two assists in 21 minutes during Friday's 124-91 win over San Antonio.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas got off to a fast start with nine points and seven rebounds in the first quarter, and he cruised to his third straight double-double despite seeing only 21 minutes of playing time. The 6-foot-11 center logged a plus-19 during his relatively brief time on the court as the Pelicans dominated San Antonio throughout the contest. Valanciunas has been a steadily productive big man for his fantasy managers this season, posting per-game averages of 17.9 points, 11.4 rebounds and a career-best 2.5 assists.
Mar 16, 2022
Records double-double in loss
Valanciunas chipped in 17 points (8-14 FG, 1-4 3Pt), 12 rebounds, three assists, one block and one steal over 30 minutes during Tuesday's 131-115 loss to the Suns.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has recorded four double-doubles over his past six games. The big man is doing all he can to keep the Pelicans' playoff hopes alive, but there is only so much he can do while Brandon Ingram (hamstring) is sidelined. If Ingram continues to miss, double-double numbers are likely to follow for Valanciunas.
Mar 14, 2022
Huge night in blowout victory
Valanciunas ended Sunday's 130-105 win over the Rockets with 32 points (12-18 FG, 1-3 3Pt, 7-7 FT), 10 rebounds, three assists, one block and one steal in 27 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas was simply unstoppable Sunday, taking full advantage of a Rockets team with very little to play for. His 32 points were the most he has scored in a game since late November, a welcome sight for those battling in their fantasy playoffs. With the team down on offensive firepower, Valanciunas is going to need to shoulder more of the scoring load in the short term, something that managers should welcome with open arms.
Mar 9, 2022
Monstrous performance Wednesday
Valanciunas recorded 30 points (11-20 FG, 0-2 3Pt, 8-8 FT), 15 rebounds, three assists, two steals and two blocks during Wednesday's 108-102 loss to Orlando.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas turned in a terrific performance for the Pelicans, who fell behind early but almost completed the comeback in the fourth quarter. The center's 30 points were the most he has tallied since posting a career-high 39 points against the Chippers on Nov. 29, and his team-best 15 rebounds marked a sixth double-double since Feb. 17. In March so far, the Lithuanian is averaging 16.0 points and 10.2 rebounds with three double-doubles.
Mar 7, 2022
Goes for 19 points
Valanciunas fouled out of Sunday's 138-130 overtime loss to Denver after recording 19 points (9-16 FG, 1-3 3Pt), 14 rebounds and two assists over 30 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas posted a double-double for the fifth time over his last six appearances, and the big man has also been extremely consistent when it comes to his scoring figures. He has scored at least 10 points in all but two of his contests since the beginning of 2022.
Mar 3, 2022
Claims another double-double
Valanciunas accumulated 17 points (7-13 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 14 rebounds, two assists and one block in 31 minutes during Wednesday's 125-95 win over the Kings.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas recorded his fourth straight double-double and has been a model of consistency for nearly all season. He's scored at least 15 points in all but two games since the beginning of February, and he's averaging 10.5 boards per game during that same 12-game stretch.
Feb 28, 2022
Cruises to double-double Sunday
Valanciunas recorded 19 points (7-10 FG, 1-2 3Pt, 4-7 FT), 10 rebounds, two assists and two steals in 28 minutes during Sunday's 123-95 win over the Lakers.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas dominated the Lakers on Sunday, racking up yet another double-double. After a dip in his rebounding numbers, he has now notched three consecutive double-doubles, looking more like the player we saw early in the season. The Pelicans have won seven of their past 11 games and have made it pretty clear that they would like to be a part of the playoffs this season. With that in mind, Valanciunas should be a nightly double-double threat ROS.
Feb 16, 2022
Another contest in double figures
Valanciunas had 19 points (7-11 FG, 1-4 3Pt, 4-4 FT), four rebounds, one assist and two blocks over 27 minutes during Tuesday's 121-109 loss to the Grizzlies.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas was 6-for-7 from inside the arc en route to his 16th straight contest in double figures. During that stretch, the veteran big man has averaged 16.8 points, 10.1 rebounds and 2.9 assists in 30.3 minutes per game. He'll look to extend his double-digit scoring streak Thursday against the Mavericks, which is New Orleans' last contest before the All-Star break.
Feb 15, 2022
Comes close to double-double
Valanciunas finished Monday's 120-90 win over the Raptors with 18 points (6-9 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 6-6 FT), nine rebounds, four assists and two blocks across 29 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas is one of the league's elite double-double threats, and in fact, he's reached that feat 34 times already. That said, his numbers have taken a bit of a step back in February. He's averaging 16.1 points and 9.0 rebounds per game this month while only recording two double-doubles in seven appearances.
Feb 11, 2022
Just misses double-double Thursday
Valanciunas scored 16 points (6-8 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 4-4 FT) while adding nine rebounds, three assists and a block in 33 minutes during Thursday's 112-97 loss to the Heat.
ANALYSIS
While it was a solid performance for the 29-year-old center, Valanciunas got out-produced by Bam Adebayo by a wide margin in their individual matchup. JV has scored in double digits in 13 straight games despite missing three contests in late January due to a non-COVID illness, averaging 16.5 points, 10.5 boards, 3.0 assists and 0.8 blocks over that stretch.
Feb 7, 2022
Fills stat sheet, fouls out
Valanciunas ended with 18 points (5-10 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 7-10 FT), five rebounds, three assists, one block and one steal over 27 minutes before fouling out of Sunday's 120-107 win over the Rockets.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has now gone six straight games without reaching the 20-point mark, but the veteran big man has three double-doubles in that span and continues to produce at both ends for New Orleans. While his consistency levels are not the same ones he showed at the beginning of the season, he's still putting up 17.4 points and 11.1 rebounds per game since the beginning of January.
Feb 2, 2022
Double-doubles in win
Valanciunas closed with 13 points (4-9 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 5-6 FT), 13 rebounds, two assists, one block and one steal across 29 minutes during Tuesday's 111-101 win over the Pistons.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas drew six trips to the free-throw line en route to 13 points and grabbed a team-high 13 rebounds, notching his 33rd double-double of the campaign. The veteran big man is averaging 18.2 points, 12.0 rebounds and 2.5 assists in 31.6 minutes per game. He's attempting a career-high 2.4 threes per game and connecting on 40.2 percent of them, though he only shot 29.0 percent from beyond the arc in January (11 games).
Feb 1, 2022
Solid in loss
Valanciunas contributed 16 points (7-13 FG, 0-3 3Pt, 2-2 FT), nine rebounds, four assists and two blocks over 31 minutes during Monday's 93-90 loss to the Cavaliers.
ANALYSIS
After missing multiple games with a non-COVID illness, Valanciunas returned to his typical workload Monday. His production was up to par, as the big man averaged 17.8 points on 54.0 percent shooting across 11 games in January. Although Valanciunas is still averaging an awesome 41.7 clip from beyond the arc this season, since the beginning of December he's shot just 27.1 percent from three.
Jan 31, 2022
Back in starting lineup
Valanciunas (illness) will start Monday's game against the Cavs, Pelicans studio host Daniel Sallerson reports.
ANALYSIS
After missing the last three games with a non-COVID illness, Valanciunas will be back in action at his customary center spot. The Pelicans will go with a bigger lineup featuring Jaxson Hayes at power forward, Herbert Jones at small forward and Josh Hart and an Devonte' Graham in the backcourt.
Jan 30, 2022
May return Monday
Valanciunas (illness) is listed as questionable for Monday's contest against the Cavaliers.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has missed three consecutive games, two of which were due to a non-COVID illness, but he has a chance to return Monday. If he's unable to suit up for a fourth straight contest, Jaxson Hayes, Willy Hernangomez and Wenyen Gabriel could all see additional playing time against Cleveland.
Jan 29, 2022
Ruled out Saturday
Valanciunas (illness) is out Saturday against Boston, Erin Summers of Bally Sports New Orleans reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas will be sidelined for a third consecutive game, and two of those absences have been due to a non-COVID illness. Jaxson Hayes, Willy Hernangomez and Wenyen Gabriel should see additional playing time Saturday.
Jan 29, 2022
Questionable Saturday
Valanciunas (illness) is questionable for Saturday's game against the Celtics.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas missed Friday's game due to a non-COVID illness after resting Tuesday, but he'll have a chance to return to the court Saturday. He could see a slight uptick in playing time if he's available since Brandon Ingram (ankle) will miss a fourth straight game.
Jan 28, 2022
Out Friday
Valanciunas (illness) is out Friday against the Nuggets, Christian Clark of The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas will miss a second straight game, and the Pelicans will be significantly shorthanded, given that Brandon Ingram (ankle) is also sidelined. Willy Hernangomez and Jaxson Hayes should see increased run again.
Jan 28, 2022
Questionable with non-COVID illness
Valanciunas is questionable for Friday's game against the Nuggets due to a non-COVID-19 illness, Jim Eichenhofer of the Pelicans' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas rested Tuesday against the 76ers, and his availability for Friday's contest is now in question due to the ailment. Willy Hernangomez and Jaxson Hayes should split work at center should Valanciunas miss his second straight game.
Jan 25, 2022
One of several Pels out Tuesday
Valanciunas will be rested for Tuesday's game against the 76ers, Pelicans broadcaster Erin Summers reports.
ANALYSIS
Playing on the second leg of a back-to-back, it looks like the Pelicans are essentially going to concede this one to Philly, as Valanciunas will join Devonte' Graham (ankle), Josh Hart (ankle) and Brandon Ingram (ankle) in street clothes. Dating back to the start of January, Valanciunas has played at least 30 minutes in nine of the last 10 games, averaging 17.8 points, 12.1 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 0.9 threes in that stretch.
Jan 25, 2022
Registers another double-double
Valanciunas posted 16 points (6-11 FG, 4-5 FT), 12 rebounds, six assists and one block over 30 minutes during Monday's 117-113 win over Indiana.
ANALYSIS
In addition to leading New Orleans in rebounds and finishing third in points, Valanciunas also tied for the team lead with six assists. The double-double was his third straight and 15th in 20 games since the start of December. The veteran center is averaging 18.3 points, 12.0 boards, 2.5 assists and 1.0 three-pointers per contest this season.
Jan 17, 2022
Double-doubles in loss
Valanciunas finished with 22 points (9-17 FG, 2-6 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 14 rebounds and four assists across 33 minutes during Monday's 104-92 loss to Boston.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas led the Pelicans in points and rebounds en route to his fifth double-double in his last six games. The veteran big man has scored 20-plus points in four of his last eight games and is averaging 17.9 points and 12.3 rebounds during that stretch. He'll look to continue his strong play Thursday against the Knicks.
Jan 10, 2022
Strong bounce-back
Valanciunas registered 20 points (7-12 FG, 1-3 3Pt, 5-6 FT), 17 rebounds, one assist, one block and one steal over 34 minutes during Sunday's 105-101 loss to Toronto.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas returned to his stat-stuffing ways. On Thursday, Valanciunas logged his standard workload while attempting his fewest shots (six) all season. He's been a fringe top-five asset at the center position for fantasy managers.
Jan 4, 2022
Goes for 25 and 16
Valanciunas posted 25 points (10-18 FG, 0-2 3Pt, 5-6 FT), 16 rebounds and two assists in 35 minutes during Tuesday's 123-110 loss to the Suns.
ANALYSIS
These kinds of games are borderline routine from Valanciunas, who is putting up All-Star caliber numbers in his first season crossing the 30-minute-per-game threshold. Tuesday's effort was his fifth with at least 16 boards and his seventh with at least 25 points, plus his 19th game with at least three dimes (though his season high is just four).
Jan 3, 2022
Returns with 25 points, nine boards
Valanciunas finished Monday's loss to Utah with 25 points (9-18 FG, 3-7 3Pt, 4-4 FT), nine rebounds, two assists and two turnovers in 30 minutes.
ANALYSIS
After a brief stint in COVID-19 protocols that kept him out of Saturday's loss to Milwaukee, Valanciunas returned to action and was back at his usual center spot. While he failed to notch a double-double for just the second time in his last 10 appearances, Valanciunas had a strong overall game, pacing the team in scoring on a night when Brandon Ingram had just 10 points on 3-of-18 shooting. Valanciunas drilled multiple three-pointers for the first time since his 39-point, 7-of-8-from-three outburst against the Clippers back on Nov. 29.
Jan 3, 2022
Listed as available Monday
Valanciunas (COVID-19 protocols) is listed as available for Monday's game against the Jazz, Pelicans broadcaster Erin Summers reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas landed in COVID-19 protocols last week, but given the league's updated return-to-play mandates, it looks like he'll only end up missing one game (Saturday at Milwaukee) due to the virus. The big man has been one of the biggest pleasant surprises of the fantasy season, as he enters Monday holding career-bests in points, assists and three-pointers per game while adding 12.0 rebounds, 1.0 blocks, 0.6 steals and shooting 81.4 percent at the line.
Jan 2, 2022
Has chance to play Monday
Valanciunas (COVID-19 health and safety protocols) is listed as questionable for Monday's game against the Jazz, Will Guillory of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
The Pelicans haven't formally indicated that Valanciunas has cleared the protocols, so that will be the first order of business before the team determines if he's ready to go Monday. He'll also need to prove he feels fine from a conditioning standpoint; though he first entered the protocols Friday, Valanciunas has played just once in the Pelicans' last four games due to an illness. Willy Hernangomez drew the start at center in Valanciunas' stead in Saturday's 136-113 loss to the Bucks, but it was backup Jaxson Hayes who saw more minutes (28) and produced the more fantasy-friendly line (23 points, seven rebounds, one block and one assist).
Dec 31, 2021
Enters health and safety protocols
Valanciuans has been placed in the league's health and safety protocols, Andrew Lopez of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
The 6-foot-11 center had missed two out of the Pelicans' last three contests due to an illness but is now set to miss even more time after being placed in the league's health and safety protocols. Willy Hernangomez and Jaxson Hayes both figure to see more playing time with Valanciunas sidelined. New Orleans is scheduled to play in four contests next week.
Dec 29, 2021
Modest double-double in loss
Valanciunas racked up 15 points (4-11 FG, 1-2 3Pt, 6-8 FT), 10 rebounds, two assists and one block across 30 minutes during Tuesday's 108-104 win over the Cavaliers.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas returned to the court after an illness-related absence, ending the night with another double-double. His shot was a little off, however, as he went just 4-of-11 from the floor, something that is out of the ordinary. As long as he is healthy, the starting center role is clearly his to lose, and based on what we have seen from his backups, there is no real chance he loses it anytime soon.
Dec 28, 2021
Playing, starting Tuesday
Valanciunas (illness) will play and start Tuesday's game against the Cavaliers, Will Guillory of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas is back after a two-game absence. In December, he's averaging 16.8 points, 11.0 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.2 blocks in 31.7 minutes.
Dec 27, 2021
Probable Tuesday
Valanciunas (illness) is probable for Tuesday's game against the Cavaliers, Pelicans broadcaster Erin Summers reports.
ANALYSIS
Valencianas has missed the last two games due to a non-COVID illness. However, he has a good chance to return to the court against Cleveland on Tuesday.
Dec 25, 2021
Out again Sunday
Valanciunas (illness) is out Sunday against the Thunder, Pelicans broadcaster Erin Summers reports.
ANALYSIS
The center will sit out a second straight game due to a non-COVID illness. Willy Hernangomez figures to get another start.
Dec 22, 2021
Out Thursday
Valanciunas (non-COVID illness) is out for Thursday's contest against the Magic, Jim Eichenhofer of the Pelicans' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
The 6-foot-11 center has appeared in each of New Orleans' first 32 games to begin the year, but will miss his first contest of the season when the team takes on Orlando on Thursday. Valanciunas absence clears the way for additional usage for the likes of Willy Hernangomez and Jaxson Hayes. The first-year Pelican's next chance to return comes Sunday in Oklahoma City.
Dec 19, 2021
Pelicans-76ers postponed
Valanciunas and the Pelicans won't face the 76ers on Sunday after the game was postponed due to depth concerns for Philadelphia, Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
Philadelphia currently has three players in the NBA's COVID-19 health and safety protocol and another seven players on the injury report, leaving the team with just seven healthy members on the roster. Since the NBA stipulates that teams must have eight players active for the contest, the league was forced to postpone the contest. Valanciunas and the Pelicans will return to action Tuesday against the Trail Blazers.
Dec 15, 2021
Picks up another double-double
Valanciunas contributed 19 points (8-10 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 16 rebounds, one block and two steals over 34 minutes during Wednesday's 113-110 win over the Thunder.
ANALYSIS
It was business as usual for the big man, who now has a double-double in seven straight games and 10 of his last 11. Valanciunas continues to be among the biggest breakouts in fantasy basketball, and with Zion Williamson (foot) appearing to be nowhere near making his season debut, there's no reason to believe Valanciunas won't continue to flourish for at least another month, if not the remainder of the campaign. The big man currently holds career highs in minutes, points, assists, threes, and free throws per game, in addition to free throw percentage and three-point percentage.
Dec 11, 2021
Keeps double-double streak alive
Valanciunas produced 17 points (7-12 FG, 3-4 FT), 11 rebounds and three assists over 27 minutes during Friday's 109-93 win over the Pistons.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas continues to be one of the best two-way big men in the league and at this point, it's safe to consider him a nightly double-double threat. The Lithuanian big man has registered at least 10 points and at least 10 rebounds in each of his last four games and in eight of his last nine appearances.
Dec 9, 2021
Third straight double-double
Valanciunas supplied 27 points (12-21 FG, 1-2 3Pt, 2-3 FT), 11 rebounds, three assists and three blocks over 39 minutes during Wednesday's 120-114 overtime loss to the Nuggets.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has been a nightly double-double threat on a regular basis over the last few seasons regardless of where he's been playing, and that hasn't changed now that he protects the Pelicans' rim. He has nine double-doubles over his last 11 appearances and is averaging such feat for the third year in a row. In fact, his 18.9 points per game would be a new career-best mark if he's able to sustain that throughout the season.
Dec 6, 2021
Puts up 17 and 10 in loss
Valanciunas ended with 17 points (7-11 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 3-6 FT), 10 rebounds, three assists, three blocks and one steal in 32 minutes during Sunday's 118-108 loss to Houston.
ANALYSIS
The big man now has a double-double in six of the last seven games, as he continues to be among the biggest fantasy surprises of the season. While Valanciunas is an excellent source of points and rebounds, he can't always be counted on for elite defensive production. Entering Sunday, Valanciunas was averaging 0.8 blocks per game, and he'd recorded multiple blocks in just one of his last 17 appearances.
Nov 30, 2021
Explodes for career-best 39 points
Valanciunas produced 39 points (15-24 FG, 7-8 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 15 rebounds, three assists and two steals over 32 minutes during Monday's 123-104 win over the Clippers.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas was unstoppable in the first half, knocking down all seven of his three-point tries en route to 29 points. Though he slowed down a bit after halftime, the big man still finished with a career-best point total, and his seven first-half treys were also good for a single-game career high. For good measure, Valanciunas added 15 boards to register his fourth straight double-double.
Nov 28, 2021
Double-doubles in blowout loss
Valanciunas chipped in 12 points (6-11 FG, 0-4 3Pt), 12 rebounds, two assists and one block over 22 minutes during Saturday's 127-105 loss to the Jazz.
ANALYSIS
New Orleans at one point trailed by 40 in the contest, leading to reduced minutes across the board for the team's starters. Despite the lessened playing time, Valanciunas was able to record his third straight double-double and 16th overall this season. He is enjoying arguably his finest NBA campaign in his first season with the Pelicans, posting per-game averages of 18.5 points, 12.3 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 1.0 three-pointers and 0.9 blocks.
Nov 25, 2021
Provides another double-double
Valanciunas produced 21 points (7-18 FG, 1-4 3Pt, 6-6 FT), 11 rebounds and four assists in 24 minutes during Wednesday's 127-102 win over the Wizards.
ANALYSIS
It wasn't a particularly efficient shooting performance, but the 29-year-old took advantage of his opportunities at the charity stripe. Valanciunas now has 14 double-doubles in 20 games this season, and he's scored in double figures in all but the season opener.
Nov 22, 2021
Back for second half
Valanciunas (knee) checked back into Monday's game against Minnesota, freelance NBA reporter Dane Moore reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas went down with a knee injury in the first half but was cleared to return for the final two quarters of Monday's matchup.
Nov 22, 2021
Suffers bruised knee
Valanciunas is questionable to return to Monday's game against the Timberwolves due to a left knee contusion, Jim Eichenhofer of the Pelicans' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas appeared to have suffered the injury during the first half. Jaxson Hayes and Willy Hernangomez would be in line for extended minutes if he's unable to return.
Nov 20, 2021
Records double-double
Valanciunas logged 26 points (10-19 FG, 5-9 3Pt, 1-2 FT), 13 rebounds, two assists and one steal across 38 minutes during a 94-81 win Friday against the Clippers.
ANALYSIS
Despite logging no double-doubles across his previous three games, Valanciunas has seven of them among 10 matchups this month. He averaged 19.4 points and 11.7 rebounds during that span. The 10-game sample is sufficient enough to indicate what Valanciunas' fantasy managers should expect while superstar Zion Williamson (foot) remains out.
Nov 18, 2021
Modest showing in loss
Valanciunas finished Wednesday's 113-98 loss to the Heat with 13 points (5-9 FG, 0-2 3Pt, 3-4 FT), eight rebounds and one block over 28 minutes.
ANALYSIS
It was a relatively quiet showing from the veteran big man, as he tied his season low in rebounds and scored his fewest points since the season opener. Valanciunas still has a solid floor of production with 11 double-doubles through 16 games this season.
Nov 15, 2021
Nears double-double in Monday's loss
Valanciunas chipped in 16 points (6-12 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 3-5 FT), nine rebounds, three assists and one block over 37 minutes during Monday's 0-0 loss to the Wizards.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas continues to provide consistent play in the paint for the Pelicans. The center finished just one rebound shy of what would have been his 12th double-double already this season. Valanciunas has also scored in double figures in every contest but the season opener, and has added at least 11 rebounds in 12 different matchups.
Nov 11, 2021
Grabs 15 boards in loss
Valanciunas tallied 25 points (9-20 FG, 1-3 3Pt, 6-7 FT), 15 rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block in 39 minutes during Wednesday's 108-100 loss to Oklahoma City.
ANALYSIS
The good times keep coming for anyone who drafted Valanciunas, turning in another monster performance Wednesday. The continued absence of Zion Williamson (foot) has been a blessing in disguise, albeit a very poor disguise. Selling high right now is something to consider, although, it is unlikely you get back an adequate replacement. The return of Williamson will come at some point but until then, just sit back and enjoy the ride.
Nov 4, 2021
Posts another double-double
Valanciunas registered 14 points (5-13 FG, 2-3 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 11 rebounds and two assists across 29 minutes Wednesday in a loss to the Kings.
ANALYSIS
The big man was less efficient than usual from the field against Sacramento, but he still finished with double-digit scoring for the eighth straight game. Valanciunas has also grabbed at least 11 boards in eight of his nine contests this season and has finished with a double-double in seven straight games. He is averaging 19.2 points, 14.1 boards and 1.1 blocks overall.
Nov 3, 2021
Another big night in loss
Valanciunas finished Tuesday's loss to the Suns with 23 points (9-16 FG< 3-4 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 14 rebounds, two assists, two blocks and a steal.
ANALYSIS
The Pelicans continue to pile up losses, and the big man continues to pile up double-doubles. He now has a double-double in six straight games and hasn't dipped below 13 rebounds in any of those contests. Valanciunas' defensive contributions can be spotty from game-to-game, but on the season he's up to 0.9 steals (career high) and 1.3 blocks (tied career high) per game to go with 2.6 assists (career high).
Oct 31, 2021
Another double-double, another loss
Valanciunas finished Saturday's loss to the Knicks with 27 points (10-15 FG, 1-3 3Pt, 6-7 FT), 14 rebounds and four assists.
ANALYSIS
While the Pelicans dropped to 1-6 on the season, Valanciunas racked up another big double-double as he continues to be one of the biggest points-rebounds assets in fantasy basketball to begin the year. He's grabbed at least 13 rebounds in five straight games, and until Saturday he'd recorded at least one block in every game. Over the last three games alone, Valanciunas has posted 67 points and 42 rebounds.
Oct 30, 2021
Double-doubles in loss
Valanciunas posted 24 points (10-14 FG, 1-2 3Pt, 3-6 FT), 13 rebounds, two steals, two blocks and an assist across 32 minutes in Friday's loss to the Kings.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas endured a slow start to the campaign but turned things around quickly, and he has extended his streak of double-doubles to four games. The veteran big man has scored at least 20 points in three of his last four contests while grabbing at least 12 boards in all but one of his appearances, showing the ability to get the job done on both ends of the court while being an extremely effective fantasy asset across all formats.
Oct 27, 2021
Another big double-double
Valanciunas racked up 16 points (6-14 FG, 4-4 FT) and 15 boards, to go with three assists, a block and a steal, in Wednesday's loss to Atlanta.
ANALYSIS
The big man has now tallied 55 rebounds over the last three games alone, while blocking at least one shot in each of those contests. Valanciunas is also a perfect 24-of-24 at the line on the season, making him one of the best early season values in fantasy basketball. Double-doubles are nothing new to Valanciunas -- he averaged a double-double in each of the last two seasons -- but he's taken his production to a new level in New Orleans, where he's seeing nearly seven more minutes per game compared to last season (28.3 MPG).
Oct 26, 2021
Monster double-double in win
Valanciunas finished with 22 points (7-18 FG, 8-8 FT), 23 rebounds, three assists and two blocks in 39 minutes during Monday's 107-98 victory over the Timberwolves.
ANALYSIS
The Pelicans managed to win their first game of the season on the back of a huge performance by Valanciunas. Despite an indifferent start to the season from a team perspective, Valanciunas has been able to continue on from where he ended last season. He is typically able to deliver a double-double on most nights and is one of the more efficient centers in the league.
Oct 23, 2021
Scores 18 points
Valanciunas recorded 18 points (8-11 FG, 2-2 FT), eight rebounds, three assists and one block across 33 minutes during a 128-112 loss Friday at Chicago.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas' 72.7 field-goal percentage and zero turnovers indicate he was the most efficient Pelicans player Friday. He redeemed himself after missing 16 shots during his team debut Wednesday versus Philly.
Oct 20, 2021
Inks two-year extension
Valanciunas and the Pelicans agreed Wednesday to a two-year, $30.1 million extension, Andrew Lopez of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas was on the last year of his contract, but the Pelicans will opt to keep him around for two additional years despite not seeing how he fits with Zion Williamson (foot) yet. Regardless, Valanciunas has been one of the better fantasy centers over the past three seasons. Since 2018-19, he's averaged 15.8 points, 11.0 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.0 blocks while shooting 58.1 percent from the field.
Oct 6, 2021
Goes for 13 and nine in debut
Valanciunas finished Wednesday's preseason win over Orlando with 13 points (5-13 FG, 1-2 3Pt, 2-2 FT), nine rebounds and two blocks.
ANALYSIS
Making his Pelicans debut after sitting out Monday's opener, Valanciunas looked right at home, narrowly missing a double-double in 20 minutes of action. The veteran big man is a virtual lock to begin the season as the starting center with the hope that his floor-spacing ability helps open up things up for Zion Williamson (foot).
Oct 6, 2021
Starting Wednesday
Valanciunas will start in Wednesday's game against the Magic, Will Guillory of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas will make his first start of the preseason after he was held out of Monday's opener due to a right thumb strain. Willy Hernangomez will shift to the bench with Valanciunas back in the lineup.
Oct 6, 2021
Slated to play Wednesday
Valanciunas (thumb) will play in Wednesday's preseason matchup against Orlando, Christian Clark of NOLA.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas was held out of Monday's preseason opener due to a right thumb strain, but he'll be active against the Magic. The 29-year-old should serve as the Pelicans' starting center to begin the year.
Oct 5, 2021
May play Wednesday
Valanciunas (thumb) is considered probable for Wednesday's contest against the Magic, Will Guillory of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas sat out of Monday's preseason opener, but it appears he will make his Pelicans debut Wednesday. The 6-foot-11 center was traded to New Orleans this offseason in exchange for Eric Bledsoe and Steven Adams.
Oct 4, 2021
Officially out Monday
Valanciunas (thumb) will not play Monday against the Timberwolves, Will Guillory of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
The big man was doubtful coming into the day due to a strained right thumb, so his absence doesn't come as much of a surprise. With Zion Williamson (foot) also out, Jaxson Hayes could be set for extended minutes up front.
Oct 3, 2021
Doubtful for preseason opener
Valanciunas (thumb) is doubtful for Monday's preseason opener against the Timberwolves.
ANALYSIS
The 6-foot-11 big was traded to New Orleans over the offseason, but his status for the team's first action of the preseason is in jeopardy due to a thumb strain. If Valanciunas is forced to sit, both Jaxson Hayes and Willy Hernangomez would most likely see increased playing time Monday.
Jul 26, 2021
Traded to Pelicans
Valanciunas was traded to the Pelicans on Monday as part of a deal that brings Eric Bledsoe and Steven Adams to Memphis, Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
The two teams will swap starting centers, but the Pelicans will pay a price for Memphis taking on a pair of less-than-desirable salary figures. New Orleans will send the No. 10 and No. 40 picks in Thursday's draft -- as well as a top-10-protected 2022 first-rounder (via the Lakers) -- to Memphis, which will send back the No. 17 and No. 51 picks in 2021. The trade will likely install Valanciunas as the Pelicans' top center alongside Zion Williamson, who struggled to fit in next to a non-spacer in Adams. Valanciunas is coming off of a career year in 2020-21, posting career-highs in scoring (17.1 PPG) and rebounding (12.5 RPG) while adding 1.8 assists and 0.9 blocks per contest. Valanciunas finished the season 21-of-57 (36.8%) from three-point range, and there's a good chance he'll be asked to do more floor-spacing in New Orleans -- especially if Williamson's jumper does not improve this offseason.
Jun 3, 2021
Decent output in playoff exit
Valanciunas mustered 18 points (8-13 FG, 2-4 3Pt), six rebounds, two steals and an assist across 27 minutes in Wednesday's loss to the Jazz.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas produced three double-doubles in the series and always scored in double digits, but he had quite a few problems when dealing with Rudy Gobert and couldn't repeat the same dominance spells he evidenced during the regular season. He still delivered decent numbers in the playoffs, though, averaging 15.0 points, 9.8 rebounds and 2.6 assists across 33.2 minutes per game in five postseason appearances.
May 30, 2021
Musters double-double in loss
Valanciunas posted 10 points (5-9 FG, 0-2 3Pt), 13 rebounds and five assists actoss 35 minutes in Saturday's 121-111 loss to the Jazz.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas was embroiled in a tough battle with Rudy Gobert throughout the game. Although his shot volume wasn't significant, he kept pace with Gobert and didn't commit any mistakes. If he can remain steady against one of the best defenders in the league, the Grizzlies may have a chance to get back into this series Monday night.
May 24, 2021
Double-double in win
Valanciunas accumulated 15 points (7-14 FG, 1-2 FT), 12 rebounds, three assists and one block in 39 minutes during Sunday's 112-109 win over the Jazz.
ANALYSIS
The 29-year-old has now posted six straight double-doubles dating back to May 6, a span in which he's averaging 20.8 points, 14.8 rebounds and 2.2 blocks. Valanciunas averaged a career-high 12.5 rebounds through 62 regular-season games, so it's safe to say he's carried over that momentum into the NBA playoffs. The nine-year center will look to keep up his impressive play Wednesday on the road against the top-seeded Jazz.
May 22, 2021
Pulls down 12 boards
Valanciunas had nine points (3-6 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 2-4 FT), 12 rebounds and three assists across 26 minutes in Friday's overtime win over the Warriors.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas ended a streak of five straight double-doubles, though he didn't see the court much, to begin with -- the 26 minutes represented his lowest tally since May 5, when he only logged 20 minutes against the Timberwolves. Expect him to be one of the Grizzlies' main factors in the upcoming series against the Jazz, as he'll have to deal with Rudy Gobert, another elite big man, on both ends of the court.
May 20, 2021
Another double-double
Valanciunas had 23 points (10-16 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 3-6 FT), 23 rebounds, three blocks and an assist across 38 minutes in Wednesday's win over the Spurs.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas ended the regular season with five straight double-doubles, but he saved the best for one of the biggest games for the franchise in recent history -- the 23 boards were a season-high mark and he also reached the 20-point mark for the fourth straight contest. Expect Valanciunas to continue playing a key role when the Grizzlies take on the loser of the matchup between the Lakers and Warriors to determine whether they'll reach the playoffs or not.
May 17, 2021
Ends regular season on high note
Valanciunas had 29 points (12-15 FG, 5-6 FT), 16 rebounds, an assist and a steal across 36 minutes in Sunday's loss against the Warriors.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas was an authentic double-double machine during the entire season, and the regular-season finale couldn't have been any different for the big man. He ends the season with five straight double-doubles and should be one of the key pieces for the Grizzlies in their race to earn a postseason berth in the upcoming play-in tournament that starts Tuesday.
May 15, 2021
Available Sunday
Valanciunas (back) isn't listed on the injury report for Sunday's game against the Warriors.
ANALYSIS
The 29-year-old was one of eight players unavailable Friday against the Kings, but he'll join most of his teammates back on the court Sunday. Valanciunas has averaged 18.0 points, 13.2 rebounds, 2.4 blocks and 2.0 assists over his past five games.
May 14, 2021
One of eight Grizzlies sitting out
Valanciunas (back) will not play Friday against the Kings.
ANALYSIS
Friday is essentially shaping up as a league-wide rest day, and the Grizzlies will lead the way with a whopping eight players listed as inactive. While Valanciunas did deal with a legitimate back issue recently, his "injury" Friday is almost certainly fabricated. He went for 24 points and 13 boards in 33 minutes Thursday night against the Kings.
May 14, 2021
Posts big double-double in win
Valanciunas registered 24 points (8-10 FG, 8-8 FT), 13 rebounds, three assists and a blocked shot over 33 minutes in Thursday's 116-110 victory over the Kings.
ANALYSIS
The center was questionable for the contest after missing the team's previous game due to a back issue, but he started and dominated both offensively and on the boards. Valanciunas finished with his fourth straight double-double and eighth in his past nine games. The big man is tied for third in the league in the category this season with 48 double-doubles overall.
May 13, 2021
Available Thursday
Valanciunas (back) will play Thursday against the Kings.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas had previously been listed as questionable, but he will be available and will be in the starting lineup as usual. He was forced to miss just one game due to a sore back.
May 12, 2021
Questionable Thursday
Valanciunas (back) is questionable for Thursday's game against the Kings, Evan Barnes of The Memphis Commercial Appeal reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas missed Tuesday's game against the Mavericks, but there's a chance he'll be back for the Grizzlies' third-to-last game of the regular season. In six appearances this month, he's averaged 14.7 points, 14.2 rebounds, 2.8 blocks and 1.8 assists in 30.0 minutes.
May 11, 2021
Out as expected
Valanciunas (back) is out Tuesday against the Mavericks, Evan Barnes of The Memphis Commercial Appeal reports.
ANALYSIS
With both Valanciunas and Jaren Jackson (knee) out, the Grizzlies will be quite thin in the frontcourt. The result could be more minutes for Xavier Tillman and Brandon Clarke.
May 11, 2021
Expected to sit Tuesday
Valanciunas is listed as doubtful for Tuesday's game against Dallas due to a sore back.
ANALYSIS
The big man played 27 minutes in Monday's win over the Pelicans, finishing with 20 points, 11 rebounds, two assists and a season-high five blocks for one of his best stat lines of the entire season. However, he emerged from the contest with a sore back, and the Grizzlies are bracing for him to miss at least one game. With Jaren Jackson Jr. (rest) already ruled out, Xavier Tillman will likely get the nod at center Tuesday.
May 11, 2021
Terrific two-way performance
Valanciunas totaled 20 points (9-12 FG, 2-2 FT), 11 rebounds, five blocks and two assets in a 115-110 victory over the Pelicans on Monday.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas recorded his sixth double-double in his last seven games and recorded a new season-high block total. The center's 47 double-doubles this season are good for third-most in the NBA, trailing just Nikola Jokic and Russell Westbrook. Valanciunas has averaged an impressive 14.6 points, 14.3 rebounds and 2.6 blocks across his last seven games.
May 8, 2021
Grabs 21 boards in win
Valanciunas registered 18 points (9-15 FG, 0-1 3Pt), 21 rebounds, four blocks, one assist and one steal in 36 minutes during Saturday's 109-99 win over the Raptors.
ANALYSIS
The 29-year-old has now hauled in 37 total rebounds over his last two games, a span in which he's averaging 18.5 points, 18.5 rebounds and 3.0 blocks. Valanciunas is averaging a career-high 12.4 rebounds to go along with 16.7 points and 0.9 blocks through 59 games this season. The ninth-year center will look to keep up his torrid rebounding pace Monday at home against the Pelicans.
May 7, 2021
Delivers double-double
Valanciunas had 19 points (9-12 FG, 1-2 FT), 16 rebounds, two assists and two blocks across 32 minutes in Thursday's loss at Detroit.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has scored in double digits while grabbing at least 15 rebounds in four of his last five appearances, and the Lithuanian big man has settled in as one of the most productive big men in the league and as a nightly double-double threat due to his contributions on both ends of the court. He already has 45 double-doubles across 58 appearances this season.
May 5, 2021
Fouls out in 19 minutes
Valanciunas tallied nine points (4-7 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 1-2 FT), five rebounds, two assists and two steals in 19 minutes during Wednesday's 139-135 win over the Timberwolves.
ANALYSIS
The 28-year-old struggled with foul trouble, snapping his streak of three straight double-doubles. Before Wednesday's game, Valanciunas was averaging 12.0 points, 15.7 rebounds and 2.3 blocks while shooting 53.8 percent from the field over his past three games. He'll look to bounce back Thursday on the road against the Pistons.
May 4, 2021
Third consecutive double-double
Valanciunas scored 11 points (4-8 FG, 3-3 FT) to go along with 16 rebounds, three blocks and one assist across 35 minutes n Monday's loss to the Knicks.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas put up a near identical stat line to his effort Saturday, and he has now recorded three consecutive double-doubles. Perhaps even more impressive has been his work defensively, as Valanciunas has swatted three shots in consecutive games.
May 2, 2021
Posts another double-double
Valanciunas had 11 points (5-10 FG, 1-4 FT), 16 rebounds, three blocks, three assists and a steal across 30 minutes in Saturday's loss against the Magic.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has been a double-double machine this season and has accomplished that feat three times over his last five appearances, and it's worth noting the three blocks are his highest mark since Mar 10, when he swatted four shots. The Lithuanian big man is averaging 19.0 points and 11.6 rebounds per game across his last 10 games.
May 1, 2021
Pulls down 15 rebounds
Valanciunas scored 14 points (5-8 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 3-4 FT) to go along with 15 rebounds, two assists, a steal and a block across 27 minutes in Friday's win over the Magic.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas, who drained a three-pointer for the third time over his last four games, looked efficient on both ends of the court in this one and recorded yet another double-double -- his second in four games since missing three straight games in mid-April. He averaged 19.5 points and 11.4 rebounds per game during the month of April.
Apr 27, 2021
Limited minutes in blowout loss
Valanciunas scored 13 points (6-9 FG, 1-2 FT) to go along with three rebounds and one steal across 23 minutes in Monday's loss to the Nuggets.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas played only four minutes in the fourth quarter after the Nuggets extended a double-digit lead further in the final portion of the game. Though he managed to score efficiently while on the floor, the rest of his stat line was uninspiring. However, there shouldn't be reason for concern moving forward, as Valanciunas looked excellent in his initial game back after a three-contest absence due to a concussion.
Apr 25, 2021
Double-doubles in return
Valanciunas posted 21 points (9-17 FG, 3-4 3Pt) and 10 boards in Sunday's win over Portland.
ANALYSIS
Making his return from a three-game, concussion-induced absence, the big man picked up right where he left off. He did not face any restrictions, playing 30 minutes and also chipping in a pair of steals on the defensive end. Valanciunas now has a double-double in all but three of his last 24 appearances.
Apr 25, 2021
Will play Sunday
Valanciunas (concussion) will play Sunday against Portland, Jamie Hudson of NBC Sports Northwest reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas will return from a three-game absence due to a concussion. His return, likely to the starting lineup, will impact the workload of Xavier Tillman.
Apr 24, 2021
Questionable Sunday
Valanciunas (concussion) is questionable for Sunday's contest against the Trail Blazers.
ANALYSIS
The Grizzlies' starting center has been out the past three games due to a concussion, but he may be able to return Sunday. If he does, it would mean fewer minutes for Xavier Tillman.
Apr 22, 2021
Ruled out Friday
Valanciunas (concussion) will not play Friday against Portland.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas will miss his third game in a row while dealing with a concussion. Xavier Tillman has started the last two games, posting averages of 13.0 points, 13.0 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 2.0 steals and 1.0 triple per game in that stretch.
Apr 20, 2021
Out Wednesday
Valanciunas (concussion) is out Wednesday against the Clippers.
ANALYSIS
A concussion will force the starting center to miss a second straight game. Xavier Tillman got the start Monday against the Nuggets, and it seems likely that he'll start again. However, note that Jaren Jackson (knee) is questionable to return, so there's a chance he could get the nod in his first game back.
Apr 18, 2021
Out with concussion
Valanciunas (concussion) will not play Sunday against the Nuggets.
ANALYSIS
The big man took a hit to the head during the second half of Saturday's win over Milwaukee, and he's officially entered the league's concussion protocol. He'll be evaluated on a day-to-day basis, but it's very possible Valanciunas could miss multiple games as the Grizzlies enter a four-game Week 18.
Apr 13, 2021
Strong all-around performance
Valanciunas had 26 points (12-15 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 14 rebounds, three blocks and two assists across 34 minutes in Monday's win over the Bulls.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has been one of the league's most productive big men this season and extended his double-double streak to 15 games. Aside from being a double-double threat on a nightly basis, Valanciunas has been particularly productive on the defensive end of the court of late with three straight games with multiple blocks.
Apr 12, 2021
Massive double-double
Valanciunas scored 34 points (16-25 FG, 2-2 FT) to go along with 22 rebounds, two blocks and two assists across 32 minutes in Sunday's loss to the Pacers.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas matched his career-high in points while commanding a massive 30 percent usage rate. He also recorded a season-best 22 rebounds, the third time on the campaign he's reached at least 20 in a contest. Valanciunas has consistently provided points and rebounds, but has not been a great producer otherwise -- with the exception of field-goal percentage -- as he is averaging only 1.8 assists, 0.8 blocks and 0.6 steals per game this season.
Apr 10, 2021
Extends impressive streak
Valanciunas had 20 points (8-11 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 3-4 FT), 14 rebounds, three blocks, two assists and a steal across 36 minutes in Friday's overtime loss against the Knicks.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has recorded 13 double-doubles in a row and has been one of the league's most productive big men during that stretch, averaging 17.5 points and 13.9 boards per tilt. He has recorded just 0.8 blocks per game in that span and has tallied multiple swats just three times during that 13-game period, but he makes up for it with his energy on the glass and scoring exploits, as he has scored 15-plus points in each of his last seven games. Expect Valanciunas to remain a key contributor for the Grizzlies on both ends of the court moving forward.
Apr 7, 2021
Posts 12th straight double-double
Valanciunas registered 19 points (9-13 FG, 1-3 3Pt), 11 rebounds, four assists and one block in 26 minutes during Wednesday's win over the Hawks.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has been on a roll over his last 12 games, averaging 17.4 rebounds and 13.4 rebounds while shooting 57.7 percent from the field. The 28-year-old is averaging a career-low 0.6 blocks per game this season, but he's making up for it by averaging a career-high 12.5 rebounds. The ninth-year center is a huge reason the Grizzlies are holding onto the last playoff spot in the Western Conference, so expect his minutes to hover around 30 minutes a game the rest of the way.
Apr 7, 2021
Extends double-double streak
Valanciunas had 20 points (7-9 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 5-5 FT), 10 rebounds and a steal across 27 minutes in Tuesday's win over the Heat.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas continues to be one of the league's elite two-way threats and has recorded a double-double in 11 games in a row -- though this is just the second time he reaches the 20-point mark in that span. Valanciunas will probably never be an elite scoring threat and will be the Grizzlies' second-best scoring threat at best most nights, but he undoubtedly delivers value due to his ability to contribute on both ends of the court on a consistent basis.
Apr 4, 2021
Contributes on both ends
Valanciunas had 16 points (8-11 FG, 0-1 3Pt), 12 rebounds and an assist across 26 minutes in Sunday's win over the 76ers.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has been a double-double machine this season and has reached that feat in 10 straight games. He's probably not going to be a 20-point guy for the Grizzlies any time soon, but there's no question he provides value across all formats due to his ability to make an impact on both ends of the court.
Apr 2, 2021
Extends double-double streak
Valanciunas recorded 19 points (7-14 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 4-4 FT) and 11 rebounds across 22 minutes in Friday's win over the Timberwolves.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas only needed 22 minutes to deliver another double-double, and the talented big man has now accomplished that feat in nine straight contests. He is averaging 16.3 points and an impressive 14.9 rebounds during that span, and the Lithuanian center has also grabbed at least 10 boards in 16 appearances in a row -- including nine with at least 15 rebounds during that span.
Mar 29, 2021
Provides monster outing in win
Valanciunas posted 30 points (13-18 FG, 4-6 FT), 15 rebounds and one assist through 32 minutes during the 120-110 win over Houston on Monday.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas was an absolute force during the win Monday. The center set a new season high in points (30) and once again posted double-digits on the boards. After a rather successful first season with the Grizzlies, the big has become a consistent force on the floor and has only posted a handful of nights without a double-double. He is currently averaging 15.7 points, 12.5 rebounds and 1.7 assists through 27.5 minutes this season. Valanciunas will continue to be one of the most important pieces for Memphis and he is for the most part matchup proof.
Mar 28, 2021
Posts sixth-straight double-double
Valanciunas produced 13 points (5-10 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 3-3 FT), 11 rebounds, two assists and a blocked shot across 21 minutes in Saturday's 126-110 loss to the Jazz.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas remains one of the steadiest centers in the league and is a consistent fantasy-point-per-minute contributor. In fact, his production is almost matchup-proof when it comes to double-doubles. He joins an elite group of players with 31 double-doubles on the season, trailing only Rudy Gobert, Domantas Sabonis and Nikola Jokic in the category.
Mar 27, 2021
Grabs 18 boards in loss
Valanciunas had 14 points (5-14 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 4-4 FT), 18 rebounds, two assists, two blocks and a steal in Friday's loss to Utah.
ANALYSIS
The Grizzlies came up short, but it was another night at the office for Valanciunas, who secured his fifth straight double-double and fifth straight game with at least 15 rebounds. The big man has been one of the most reliable points/rebounds contributors in fantasy basketball, but his production on the defensive end has been sporadic.
Mar 23, 2021
Secures 19 rebounds
Valanciunas collected 16 points (7-10 FG, 2-2 FT), 19 rebounds, two assists and one steal in a 132-126 victory over the Celtics on Monday.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas' dominant stretch on the glass continued, as he recorded a game-high 19 rebounds in the Grizzlies' overtime win. The center has been fantastic in his first eight games since returning from the All-Star break, averaging 16.9 points and 15.5 rebounds per game. He has secured a double-double in seven of those games and is up to 27 on the season, which ranks ninth in the league.
Mar 21, 2021
Leads team with 19/15 double-double
Valanciunas posted 19 points (5-10 FG, 1-2 3Pt, 8-9 FT), 15 rebounds, two blocked shots and an assist across 27 minutes in Saturday's 111-103 win over the Warriors.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has distinguished himself as one of the most consistent centers in the league, and he's particularly useful to the Grizzles, who have trouble accumulating offensive production without him. The center got better support from his teammates in the second half of this tilt with Golden State, and Valanciunas had considerable success against the Warriors' frontcourt, which played without James Wiseman and Kevon Looney.
Mar 20, 2021
Pulls down 16 boards in loss
Valanciunas went for 10 points (4-7 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 2-4 FT), 16 rebounds and four assists in Friday's loss to the Warriors.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas' scoring tends to come and go on a game-by-game basis, but he's one of the league's most dependable rebounders, having notched double digit boards in 14 of the last 15 contests. Over that span, the big man is averaging 15.2 points, 13.5 rebounds and 0.5 blocks in 27.7 minutes.
Mar 16, 2021
Explodes with 24/17 double-double
Valanciunas tallied 24 points (11-14 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 2-3 FT), 17 rebounds and two steals across 27 minutes in Monday's 122-99 loss to the Suns.
ANALYSIS
Memphis was no match for the Suns on Monday, but Valanciunas once again displayed how he is virtually matchup-proof in terms of his fantasy production. He possesses the most reliable floor on the squad and can pop with tremendous upside, as he did in Monday's loss.
Mar 14, 2021
Another double-double in loss
Valanciunas went for 16 points (6-10 FG, 4-7 FT), 14 rebounds, four assists and two steals in Sunday's loss to the Thunder.
ANALYSIS
The big man posted his fifth straight double-double and his 11th in the last 12 games. Valanciunas remains one of the league's most dependable points/rebounds contributors, but he typically doesn't offer much else, from a fantasy standpoint.
Mar 13, 2021
Another double-double in loss
Valanciunas had 14 points (7-10 FG) and 11 boards in Friday's loss to the Nuggets.
ANALYSIS
Coming off of a monster, 29-point, 20-rebound effort, Valanciunas followed up with another double-double, albeit a less-impressive one. The big man continues to be a strong source of efficient scoring and high-volume rebounding, but he doesn't provide much else, and it's possible he could eventually see his workload decrease whenever Jaren Jackson Jr. (knee) makes his season debut.
Mar 11, 2021
Scores season-high 29
Valanciunas scored 29 points (12-21 FG, 0-2 3Pt, 5-7 FT) to go along with 20 rebounds, four blocks and three assists in a 127-112 victory over the Wizards on Wednesday.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas kicked off the second half of the year by going off, coming away with new season high point and block totals. He was also able to contribute 20 rebounds for just the second time this season. The center struggled a bit heading into the All-Star break, failing to score 20 points in 7-of-8 games, but has averaged a double-double on the season.
Mar 5, 2021
Double-doubles despite struggles
Valanciunas ended with 13 points (6-16 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 1-1 FT), 12 rebounds, a steal and a block across 27 minutes in Thursday's loss against the Bucks.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas posted a double-double for the eighth time in his last nine appearances, but he was uncharacteristically poor from the field and needed 16 shots to score 13 points. He's averaging 14.2 points and 12.6 rebounds over his last nine games, though, so fantasy managers shouldn't reach too much into what ended being an off night for the big man, as he has been remarkably consistent with his production on a steady basis.
Mar 2, 2021
Grabs 16 rebounds
Valanciunas totaled 11 points (5-11 FG, 1-2 FT), 16 rebounds, one assist and one steal over 29 minutes during Tuesday's victory over the Wizards.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas found himself in early foul trouble and was forced to miss most of the first half but still managed to be the only Grizzlies player to grab more than five rebounds. He continues to be a beast on the offensive glass, grabbing at least three offensive rebounds in eight straight and 11 of 14 games since returning from COVID-19 protocols. Adding to that, Valanciunas has double-digit rebounds in 11 of those games as well.
Feb 27, 2021
Another double-double
Valanciunas had 22 points (9-17 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 4-5 FT), 11 rebounds, three assists and a steal across 33 minutes in Friday's loss against the Clippers.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas led the Grizzlies offensively and made his presence felt on both ends of the court, as he also paced the team in rebounds and contributed steadily on both sides of the ball. That has been a trend for Valanciunas all season long, though, as he's been a double-double machine all year long. He has six straight double-doubles and has reached that feat nine times over his last 11 contests.
Feb 26, 2021
Good to go
Valanciunas (thigh) will play in Friday's game against the Clippers,
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas was conisered a game-time decision heading into the evening. It looks like he passed whatever tests he needed to pregame. Look for the big man to take on his usual role assuming he avoids any setbacks.
Feb 26, 2021
Will be game-time call
Valanciunas (thigh) is a game-time decision for Friday's game against the Clippers, Chris Herrington of The Daily Memphian reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas took a knee to the thigh in Thursday's win, and he was listed as questionable for Friday's matchup. He'll test things out before the game, but the team is hopeful that he'll be able to suit up for the second half of the back-to-back set.
Feb 26, 2021
Questionable Friday
Valanciunas is questionable for Friday's game against the Clippers with left thigh soreness.
ANALYSIS
The 28-year-old apparently picked up the injury during the front half of the back-to-back set Thursday against the Clippers, when he had 16 points (7-14 FG, 2-2 3Pt), 15 rebounds and two assists in 25 minutes. Valanciunas' availability for Friday's rematch is now up in the air, which could lead to an increased role for Xavier TIllman.
Feb 26, 2021
Records another double-double
Valanciunas recorded 16 points (7-14 FG, 2-2 3Pt), 15 rebounds and two assists Thursday in a 122-94 home win against the Clippers.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas replicated some of his Feb. 19 stat line versus Detroit by shooting 7-of-14 and grabbing 15 rebounds. Though the Grizzlies center played only 25 minutes, those were all he needed to prosper against an elite Clippers team. Valanciunas has averaged 15.2 points and 13.6 rebounds with a double-double across each of his past five games.
Feb 22, 2021
Pulls down 15 rebounds
Valanciunas recorded 11 points (5-18 FG, 0-2 3Pt, 1-2 FT), 15 rebounds and a block across 30 minutes in Monday's loss against the Mavericks.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has been a double-double machine this season and has reached that feat in four straight games while pulling down at least 12 boards in every one of those contests. He has scored 11 points or fewer in two of his last five outings, but he has been remarkably consistent on both ends of the court and is firmly entrenched as a reliable fantasy asset on most formats in a position where the elite performers are scarce.
Feb 21, 2021
Double-doubles against Suns
Valanciunas delivered 10 points (5-9 FG, 0-1 3Pt), 12 rebounds and an assist across 25 minutes in Saturday's loss against the Suns.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas didn't have his best scoring output and barely reached the 10-point mark, but that was enough for him to post his third straight double-double. He has reached that feat in six of his last eight contests, and the Lithuanian big man continues to produce on both ends at a steady rate for the Grizzlies -- even if the offense struggled as a whole in this game.
Feb 20, 2021
Double-doubles with 15 rebounds
Valanciunas provided 17 points (7-14 FG, 3-3 FT), 15 rebounds and an assist across 30 minutes in Friday's 109-95 win over the Pistons.
ANALYSIS
Although he had his hands full with Mason Plumlee, Valanciunas kept his consistent play rolling with another double-double. It seems that his teammates are also rising to the occasion, and with a 13-12 record, things are heading in the right direction. The Memphis center is one of the most consistent big men in the league at present.
Feb 18, 2021
Double-doubles Wednesday
Valanciunas posted 22 points (9-12 FG, 4-6 FT), 12 rebounds, two assists and a block across 28 minutes during Wednesday's win over the Thunder.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas missed five straight games between Jan. 18 and Feb. 4, but he has looked impressive since then -- he has scored at least 20 points in five of his last seven contests while also recording four double-doubles in that span. He is averaging 20.1 points and 11.4 boards per game in that seven-game span.
Feb 17, 2021
Struggles vs. Pelicans
Valanciunas posted 10 points (5-11 FG, 0-1 3Pt), five rebounds and one assist in 28 minutes during Tuesday's 144-113 loss to the Pelicans.
ANALYSIS
Coming into Tuesday's game, Valanciunas had scored at least 22 points in four of the past five, and he had grabbed at least seven boards in all five games. However, he ran into the wall of Steven Adams on Tuesday and had one of his worst performances of the year. Valanciunas' struggles on the glass weren't unexpected, as the Pelicans allow the second-fewest boards in the NBA (41.3). He faces a much easier matchup Wednesday against the Thunder, who allow the most rebounds in the league (48.3).
Feb 15, 2021
Double-double in win
Valancuinas provided 25 points (11-14 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 2-4 FT), 13 rebounds and two assists across 26 minutes in Sunday's 124-110 win over the Kings.
ANALYSIS
IT was an exemplary evening for JoVal, who got more help from his teammates in a well-coordinated win. The center has been pacing the team's offense of late and was the leading scorer once again. Valancuinas has recorded a double-double in three of his last five games.
Feb 13, 2021
Surpasses 20-point mark once again
Valanciunas registered 22 points (9-13 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 3-4 FT), eight rebounds and five assists across 32 minutes in Friday's loss against the Lakers.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas is one of the most effective two-way players in the league due to his ability to contribute offensively and clean the glass at the same time, but he's experiencing an uptick in his scoring numbers -- he has recorded 20 or more points in four of his last six contests. While he's not likely to sustain that pace for a prolonged stretch, Valanciunas is certainly proving to be valuable across most formats -- especially in a position where there aren't many quality options on a nightly basis.
Feb 10, 2021
Pulls down 15 rebounds Wednesday
Valanciunas registered 12 points (6-13 FG, 0-2 3Pt), 15 rebounds, three assists and two steals across 29 minutes in Wednesday's win over the Hornets.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas took a step back in terms of scoring after he had notched 23 or more points in three of his previous four contests, but he made an impact cleaning the glass once again -- this was his 11th game with double-digit rebounds out of 15 appearances in the current season. Valanciunas also has 11 double-doubles to date.
Feb 8, 2021
Delivers monster double-double
Valanciunas had 27 points (8-12 FG, 11-12 FT), 20 rebounds, three assists, a steal and a block across 34 minutes in Monday's loss against the Raptors.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas looked impressive against his former team, and he posted season-high marks in both points and rebounds here. He has scored at least 23 points in his first two games since returning from a five-game absence, and he should continue to be one of Memphis' most reliable fantasy performers on both ends of the court.
Feb 8, 2021
Back in starting five
Valanciunas is starting Monday's game against the Raptors at center, Rob Fischer of Fox Sports Southeast reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas made his return to action following a five-game absence Saturday against the Pelicans off the bench, but he'll be back with the starting unit Monday night. He's averaging 13.9 points, 9.3 rebounds and 1.6 assists over his last seven contests as a starter.
Feb 7, 2021
Returns to action with 23 points
Valanciunas tallied 23 points (9-11 FG, 2-2 3Pt, 3-3 FT), seven rebounds, two assists and a blocked shot across 24 minutes in Saturday's 119-108 loss to the Pelicans.
ANALYSIS
Despite coming off the bench in his first game back, Valanciunas led the team in scoring. it's expected that as he gets back into a rhythm, the center will return to the starting lineup and log his usual average of 27 minutes per game.
Feb 6, 2021
Coming off bench
Valanciunas (COVID-19 protocols) will come off the bench Saturday against the Pelicans, Rob Fischer of Fox Sports Southeast reports.
ANALYSIS
As expected, Valanciunas will be available for the first time since Jan. 16 due to health and safety protocols. However, he'll be brought off the bench during his return. Both Xavier Tillman and Gorgui Dieng will start in the frontcourt.
Feb 5, 2021
Off injury report
Valanciunas (COVID-19 protocols) is off the injury report ahead of Saturday's game against the Pelicans.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas hasn't played since Jan. 16 due to health and safety protocols, but it appears he'll be back in action Saturday. He'll presumably start at center for the matchup, but the big man may have a minutes restriction.
Feb 3, 2021
Out Thursday
Valanciunas (COVID-19 protocols) is out Thursday against the Rockets.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas will miss a fifth straight game Thursday, and it's not clear when he'll return. Xavier Tillman should continue starting at center.
Feb 2, 2021
Out again Tuesday
Valanciunas (COVID-19 protocols) will not play in Tuesday's game against the Pacers.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas will miss his fourth game in a row while being in the league's health and safety protocols. His next opportunity to return will come Thursday against Houston.
Jan 31, 2021
Ruled out Monday
Valanciunas (COVID-19 protocols) won't play Monday against the Spurs.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas will be unavailable for a third straight game due to the league's health and safety protocols. Xavier Tillman and Gorgui Dieng should see increased run in his absence.
Jan 29, 2021
Out Saturday
Valanciunas (COVID-19 protocols) is out Saturday against the Spurs.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas last saw the court Jan. 16, and the Grizzlies are coming off postponements due to health and safety protocols. While it appears Saturday's game will be played, Valanciuans won't be available.
Jan 24, 2021
Wednesday's game postponed
Valanciunas (COVID-19 protocols) and the Grizzlies will not play Wednesday against the Bulls after the game was postponed.
ANALYSIS
This is the fourth consecutive postponement for the Grizzlies, whose next scheduled game is now Saturday against the Spurs.
Jan 21, 2021
Next three games postponed
Valanciunas (COVID-19 protocols) and the Grizzlies' next three games against Portland (Friday) and Sacramento (Sunday and Monday) have been postponed, Shams Charania of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas was held out of Monday's game, and Memphis already had Wednesday's contest against Portland canceled amid ongoing COVID-19 issues. The Grizzlies' next scheduled game is now Wednesday against Chicago.
Jan 19, 2021
Out Wednesday
Valanciunas (COVID-19) is out for Wednesday's game against Portland.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas continues to be in the league's health and safety protocols, thus prompting the reason for his absence. The center may be able to return in time for the Grizzlies' game against the Trail Blazers on Friday. In the meantime, rookie Xavier Tillman will likely garner a second straight start Wednesday.
Jan 17, 2021
Won't play Monday
Valanciunas is in the league's health and safety protocols, and won't play Monday against the Suns.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas will have to go through contact tracing in accordance with NBA protocols, and he'll be unable to play Monday as a result. It's not yet clear when he'll be able to return to play. Xavier Tillman should play an increased role for Memphis in his absence.
Jan 17, 2021
Limited impact Saturday
Valanciunas registered nine points (3-6 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 3-6 FT), seven rebounds, an assist and a block across 20 minutes in Saturday's win over the 76ers.
ANALYSIS
This was just the second time Valanciunas failed to registered double-digit points, and the third one he fails to grab at least 10 boards, so it was obviously one of his worst performances of the campaign. That said, the Lithuanian has been a reliable double-digit scoring machine and should attempt to bounce back Monday against the Suns.
Jan 15, 2021
Friday's game postponed
Valanciunas and the Grizzlies will not play Friday against the Timberwolves as the game has been postponed, Shams Charania of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
In what continues to be a persistent issue throughout the league, health and safety protocols will prevent Friday's game from being played. As far as we know, Saturday's tilt against the 76ers is still on.
Jan 14, 2021
Returns to form against T-Wolves
Valanciunas recorded 24 points (11-19 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 16 rebounds, two blocks and one assist in a 118-107 win Wednesday at Minnesota.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas is expected to average double figures in points and rebounds like he did last season. Unfortunately, the center struggled at recording those during both of Memphis' previous two games. Valanciunas redeemed himself accordingly with his season highs in points and rebounds Wednesday.
Jan 11, 2021
Scores 12 points in win
Valanciunas registered 12 points (6-10 FG, 0-1 3Pt), seven rebounds, three assists and a block across 30 minutes in Monday's 101-91 win over the Cavaliers.
ANALYSIS
One day after announcing his return to the court, Valanciunas was his usual productive self in Memphis' win. Even though he hasn't recorded a double-double in any of his last two contests, Valanciunas remains a nightly threat to produce on both ends of the court -- he has double-doubled in eight of his first 10 appearances of the season.
Jan 10, 2021
Clear to return
Valanciunas (COVID-19 protocols) announced via his personal Twitter account Sunday that he's been cleared to retake the court.
ANALYSIS
The 28-year-old exited from Friday's contest due to the league's health and safety protocols, but he won't end up missing any additional time. Valanciunas should take up his usual spot in the starting lineup Monday at Cleveland.
Jan 8, 2021
Won't return Friday
Valanciunas was ruled out for the remainder of Friday's game against the Nets due to health and safety protocols.
ANALYSIS
The reason for Valanciunas' departure isn't entirely clear, but the center hasn't tested positive for COVID-19, Shams Charania of The Athletic reports. His next chance to play will be Monday against the Cavaliers.
Jan 8, 2021
Another double-double in defeat
Valanciunas posted 17 points (6-11 FG, 1-2 3Pt, 4-4 FT), 10 rebounds, three assists, two blocks and one steal across 28 minutes during Thursday's 94-90 loss to Cleveland.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has a double-double in each of the Grizzlies' eight games this season. He also led the team in scoring in this one. So far, the big man is having an almost identical season to his last campaign, averaging 15.0 points and 11.4 rebounds per game.
Jan 5, 2021
Averaging double-double
Valanciunas scored 13 points (4-13 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 5-5 FT) to go with 11 rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block across 26 minutes in a 94-92 loss to the Lakers on Tuesday.
ANALYSIS
The center made his lowest number of field goals since a December 23 loss to Atlanta when he made just two of his attempts. Valanciunas kept his double-double streak alive, however, from the free-throw line where he's averaged his highest number of makes per game of his career at 3.2 free throws made per outing. The 28-year-old can be virtually penciled in for a double-double each night, averaging 9.2 rebounds on the defensive glass alone.
Jan 1, 2021
Fifth straight double-double
Valanciunas recorded 14 points (6-9 FG, 2-4 FT), 10 rebounds, an assist and a steal across 26 minutes in Friday's win over the Hornets.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has been the ultimate double-double machine this season, reaching that mark in each of his first five games to date in 2020-21. The big man has only scored more than 15 points once, but he has provided strong value across all formats due to his ability to make his presence felt on both ends of the court.
Dec 30, 2020
Continues double-double streak
Valanciunas scored 20 points (7-11 FG, 1-1 3PT, 5-7 FT) to go with 11 rebounds and one assist across 24 minutes in a 126-107 loss to Boston on Wednesday.
ANALYSIS
The center recorded a fourth straight double-double despite playing less than four minutes in the closing quarter during a game that was out of reach for most of the contest. Valanciunas handled scoring duties with Memphis seeing another starter go down for the second straight game as Grayson Allen exited with an ankle sprain. Last season, Valanciunas averaged 17.0 points against Memphis' next opponent Charlotte, but will likely see more of a workload as starters continue to disappear around him.
Dec 28, 2020
Hits third straight double-double
Valanciunas scored 14 points (6-11 FG, 0-1 3PT, 2-2 FT) to accompany his 14 rebounds, three blocks, two assists and one steal across 39 minutes in a 116-111 overtime win over Brooklyn on Monday.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas anchored the Memphis defense down the stretch, securing six of his 14 defensive rebounds in the fourth and overtime, and kept the Grizzlies close with a huge block on an easy Brooklyn layup in the extra period. The center has recorded a double-double in 10 of his last 11 games dating back to last season.
Dec 24, 2020
Notches double-double in defeat
Valanciunas scored 15 points (6-11 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 2-6 FT), 13 rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block in 30 minutes of Wednesday's 131-119 loss to the Spurs.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas is no stranger to the double-double, having averaged one all of last season. The Lithuanian native also came down with his 1,000th career board in the contest. He'll get to work on his next milestone Saturday against the Hawks.
Dec 20, 2020
Paces Grizz with nine boards
Valanciunas totaled five points (2-8 FG, 0-2 3Pt, 1-2 FT) along with nine rebounds and four blocked shots Saturday in a preseason loss to Atlanta.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas wasn't much of a contributor on the offensive end, but he compensated by leading all players with nine boards and four blocks. The veteran finishes the exhibition slate with per-game averages of 15.0 points, 8.8 rebounds and 2.0 blocks on 55.0 percent shooting from the field. He should again be a steady force down low for Memphis in his second full season with the club.
Dec 17, 2020
Double-double in dominating win
Valanciunas registered 20 points (7-9 FG, 2-2 3Pt, 4-4 FT), 13 rebounds, an assist, a steal and a blocked shot across 28 minutes in Thursday's 128-106 win over the Hawks.
ANALYSIS
There's a vast array of excellent big men atop most draft boards this season, and Valanciunas is once again undervalued and under-the-radar. An excellent shooter and consistent double-double threat, Valanciunas is a key component in boosting Ja Morant's assist count. His 6-11 frame creates a big presence in the paint for the Grizzlies, and his superior preseason performances are a portent of things to come as Memphis strives to take their game to the next level.
Dec 15, 2020
Stuffs stat sheet in win
Valanciunas recorded 22 points (8-15 FG, 1-3 3Pt, 5-6 FT), four rebounds, five assists and two blocks across 24 minutes during Monday's preseason win over the Timberwolves.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas paced the Grizzlies in scoring and blocks despite playing the fourth-lowest amount of minutes among the starters in this game. The big man should anchor the paint once the regular season begins and seems to be in line to build off what was an already impressive showing during the 2019-20 season.
Dec 13, 2020
One board shy of double-double
Valanciunas registered 13 points (5-8 FG, 1-2 3Pt, 2-4 FT), nine rebounds, an assist and a block in 22 minutes during Saturday's preseason win over the Timberwolves.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas was one of three starters that scored in double digits for the Grizzlies, and he ended just one shy of a double-double -- he reached that feat 40 times during the 2019-20 season. Valanciunas should be a strong fantasy contributor on both sides of the ball, as he will be one of Memphis' main scoring threats while also offering a consistent presence on the boards. He averaged 14.9 points and 11.3 rebounds per game in 2019-20, making it the first time he averaged a double-double during the course of an entire season.
Aug 15, 2020
Stuffs stat sheet versus Portland
Valanciunas contributed 22 points (8-16 FG, 0-4 3Pt, 6-6 FT), 17 rebounds and six assists in 34 minutes during Saturday's 126-122 loss to the Trail Blazers.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas produced a superb stat line, amassing his highest scoring and rebounding totals since the restart. His steadiness this season was a major factor in the team exceeding expectations, and Valanciunas will likely continue to be counted on to gobble up the vast majority of rebounds and dominate the paint for the Grizzlies come next season.
Aug 14, 2020
Puts up first career triple-double
Valanciunas amassed 26 points(11-17 FG, 2-3 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 19 rebounds, 12 assists and one block in 33 minutes during Thursday's 119-106 victory over the Bucks.
ANALYSIS
The Grizzlies advanced to the first-ever play-in game, accounting for an understrength Bucks outfit. Valanciunas was incredible for the Grizzlies, recording the first triple-double of his career. Ja Morant joined him with a triple-double, making this the first time in franchise history that two players have achieved the feat in a single game. The Grizzlies will face the Trail Blazers in the play-in tournament, needing to win the first two games to advance to the playoffs.
Aug 9, 2020
Scoreless in loss
Valanciunas was held scoreless (0-2 FG, 0-1 3PT, 0-2 FT) in Sunday's loss to Toronto.
ANALYSIS
It was a disappointing effort from the big man, who took only two shots in his 27 minutes of action. He did grab 10 boards to go with an assist, a steal and a block, however.
Aug 7, 2020
19 points, 11 boards in victory
Valanciunas posted 19 points (8-11 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 3-3 FT), 11 rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block in 24 minutes during Friday's 121-92 win over the Thunder.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas continued his great play as the Grizzlies finally got their first win of the bubble Friday. He's posted a double-double in each of the past four games and has scored 40 total points over the past two.
Aug 5, 2020
21 points, 14 boards in loss
Valanciunas posted 21 points (8-17 FG, 0-3 3Pt, 5-6 FT), 14 rebounds and three assists in 33 minutes during Wednesday's 124-115 loss to the Jazz.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas set bubble highs in minutes, points, rebounds and assists Wednesday in the Grizzlies' first game of the restart sans Jaren Jackson (knee). He'll likely continue to have a bigger offensive role for the remainder of the season. In the six other games this season that he's taken at least 17 shots, he's averaged 27.3 points, 15.7 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 2.0 blocks and 1.0 steals.
Aug 3, 2020
Second straight double-double
Valanciunas went for 13 points (5-9 FG, 0-2 3Pt, 3-3 FT), 13 rebounds, four blocks, one assist and one steal across 30 minutes in Monday's loss to the Pelicans.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has now registered back-to-back double-doubles since the league restarted July 31 -- he has achieved this feat in four straight contests twice this season. He should be a regular contributor on both ends of the court for the Grizzlies moving forward as long as he can keep himself out of foul trouble, which is not always the case.
Aug 2, 2020
Double-double in loss
Valanciunas had 13 points (6-12 FG, 0-1 3PT, 1-2 FT) and 11 rebounds in Sunday's loss to the Spurs.
ANALYSIS
Starting at his usual center spot, Valanciunas posted a double-double in 28 minutes of action, while also adding two assists and a block. It was an encouraging development for DFS players after Valanciunas was limited to only 14 minutes of action against Portland on Friday, due in large part to foul trouble.
Jul 28, 2020
Big double-double in scrimmage win
Valanciunas went for 15 points (5-12 FG, 0-1 3PT, 5-7 FT) and 15 rebounds in Tuesday's scrimmage against Miami.
ANALYSIS
The big man needed only 27 minutes to dominate the glass, and he also chipped in a pair of assists. Memphis was a plus-19 with Valanciunas on the floor.
Jul 24, 2020
Double-doubles in opening scrimmage
Valanciunas posted 20 points (8-13 FG, 1-3 3Pt, 3-6 FT), 11 rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block in 22 minutes during Friday's 90-83 scrimmage loss to the 76ers.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas looked to be in midseason form and wasn't slowed down by the 76ers' imposing frontcourt. He had 10 performances with at least 20 points and 10 rebounds during the regular season.
Mar 10, 2020
Impressive effort in loss
Valanciunas finished with 27 points (9-10 FG, 9-13 FT), 16 boards, one block and one steal in 36 minutes of a 120-115 loss to Orlando on Tuesday,
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas turned in another big day, owning the glass while making his presence felt when he got the ball on the offensive side of the floor as well. The rest of his teammates couldn't match his effort, as he had four of his team's seven offensive rebounds in the game. His performance continued his run of good form, with seven double-doubles in his last eight games.
Mar 8, 2020
Downs Hawks with big double-double
Valanciunas erupted for 27 points (10-13 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 7-10 FT), 17 rebounds, three blocks and two assists across 32 minutes in Saturday's 118-101 win over the Hawks.
ANALYSIS
The Hawks have had trouble slowing down centers all season, and the status quo held true as Valanciunas continued to stay hot. The Grizzlies big man has now recorded double-doubles in six of his last seven outings, averaging 16.6 points and 16.1 boards over that stretch while shooting 62.7 percent from the field and 83.3 percent from the charity stripe. Expect him to continue to benefit from an uptick in production while the Grizzlies play without Jaren Jackson (knee) and Brandon Clarke (quadriceps).
Mar 7, 2020
Logs 14/11 double-double
Valanciunas tallied 14 points (7-8 FG), 11 rebounds and an assist across 28 minutes in Friday's 121-96 loss to the Mavericks.
ANALYSIS
Valaniunas recorded his 31st double-double of the season despite getting bottled up by Kristaps Porzingis in the contest. The Grizzlies are dealing with a decimated frontcourt due to injury, so it will be up to Valanciunas to produce as they try to stay relevant in the playoff race.
Mar 5, 2020
Stays dominant on boards Wednesday
Valanciunas posted nine points (4-9 FG, 1-1 FT), 16 rebounds, two assists and one block across 26 minutes during Wednesday's 118-79 victory over the Nets.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has helped keep the Grizzlies afloat over the past five games in the absences of both Jaren Jackson (knee) and Brandon Clarke (quad). During this stretch, he's averaging 15.0 points on 10.8 shots, plus 17.0 rebounds and 1.4 assists in 27.4 minutes while Memphis has gone 3-2, holding three straight opponents to under 90 points.
Mar 2, 2020
Fourth straight double-double
Valanciunas finished with 15 points (6-7 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 15 boards, and two assists in 25 minutes of a 125-88 win against the Hawks on Monday.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas turned in his fourth straight double-double as his team cruised to an easy win against the over-matched Hawks. The veteran has been a rebounding machine for the Grizz but his overall numbers were likely hurt by his team's large lead. Memphis faces the Nets on Wednesday.
Mar 1, 2020
Posts strong double-double
Valanciunas posted 22 points (10-15 FG, 2-2 FT), 20 rebounds and two assists in 31 minutes during Saturday's 105-88 win over the Lakers.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has now grabbed 20 or more rebounds in back-to-back games, but he's also scoring at a consistent, effective rate with three straight games topping the 15-point mark. He has three straight double-doubles and is ending February on a hot streak.
Feb 29, 2020
Grabs career-high 25 rebounds
Valanciunas notched 13 points (4-14 FG, 1-3 3Pt, 4-4 FT), a career-high 25 rebounds and two blocks in 32 minutes during Friday's 104-101 loss against the Kings.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas was an absolute monster on the glass since he grabbed 20 or more rebounds just for the fifth time in his career. His scoring figures have been inconsistent so far, but most of his values crom from what he can do on the glass. The Lithuanian big man has grabbed double-digit boards in nine of 10 games this month, and he is averaging 13.7 boards per contest during February.
Feb 27, 2020
Double-doubles in loss
Valanciunas had 16 points (6-9 FG, 4-5 FT), 10 rebounds and one assist in 23 minutes during Wednesday's 140-112 loss to Houston.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas actually had a decent game despite the fact the Rockets play exclusively small-ball these days. Those with shares in him have to be pleased with the production, especially given his recent performances. Over the past two weeks, Valanciunas is outside the top-200 and has failed to record a block in his last four games. He is going to be better than this moving forward and right now could be a good time to try and buy-low.
Feb 21, 2020
Tallies 11 boards in loss
Valanciunas put up eight points (3-6 FG, 0-0 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 11 rebounds and one assist in 20 minutes during Thursday's 129-125 loss to the Kings.
ANALYSIS
Eleven rebounds almost qualifies as a disappointment for the big man considering he was coming off back-to-back games with 18. The Lithuanian has posted double-digits in the category in six-straight contests but has scored just eight points in three of them. Also of note is that he played a mere 20 minutes, his fewest since Dec. 13.
Feb 13, 2020
Another 18-board game
Valanciunas tallied 12 points (5-11 FG, 2-4 FT), 18 rebounds, three blocks and two assists across 27 minutes Wednesday in the Grizzlies' 111-104 win over the Trail Blazers.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas heads into the All-Star break with back-to-back 18-rebound games and five straight outings of double-digit boards. He's been able to achieve that production while playing no more than 30 minutes in any of those five games, as reserve big man Brandon Clarke continues to fill a sizable role as a backup center and power forward.
Feb 9, 2020
Grabs 18 boards in win
Valanciunas accumulated eight points (4-8 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 0-2 FT), 18 rebounds and two blocks in 30 minutes during Sunday's victory over the Wizards.
ANALYSIS
Posting top 15 value in nine-category leagues over his previous seven games, Valanciunas had been a fantasy beast recently. In that two-week time span, the 27-year old has put up 16.1 points, 11.0 rebounds and 2.0 blocks per game, while shooting 59.8 percent from the field, and 82.4 percent from the line. Producing the best fantasy season of his career, there's no reason to worry over Valanciunas' workload as the Grizzlies do all they can to remain in the playoff picture.
Feb 8, 2020
Double-double in Friday's loss
Valanciunas scored 14 points (5-8 FG, 4-4 FT) while adding 10 rebounds, four blocks, an assist and a steal in 28 minutes during Friday's 119-107 loss to the 76ers.
ANALYSIS
His ankle didn't appear to be an issue, and JV's night got easier after Joel Embiid (neck) didn't come back out of the locker room after halftime. Valanciunas has seven double-doubles in his last 13 games but has racked up double-digit boards 10 times in that stretch, averaging 16.1 points, 11.8 rebounds, 1.8 blocks and 1.6 assists over that span.
Feb 7, 2020
Cleared to play
Valanciunas (ankle) will play Friday against the 76ers.
ANALYSIS
Despite left ankle soreness, Valanciunas will take the court. Over his past 10 road games, he's averaging 15.4 points, 10.0 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 1.2 blocks in 26.9 minutes.
Feb 6, 2020
Questionable with ankle soreness
Valanciunas is questionable for Friday's game against the 76ers due to left ankle soreness.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has emerged from Wednesday's win over the Mavericks with ankle soreness, and it's possible he misses his first game since Dec. 21. If that's the case, Brandon Clarke could see an expanded role. It's unclear as of Thursday if Gorgui Dieng or Jordan Bell will be available.
Feb 6, 2020
Grabs 10 boards
Valanciunas went for eight points (3-6 FG, 2-2 FT) and 10 rebounds in 28 minutes during Wednesday's 121-107 win at Dallas.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas' name popped up on the injury report due to a knee injury, but this problem hasn't forced him to miss games yet. He remains a consistent threat on the glass since he has grabbed double-digit rebounds in four of his last five outings, although he snapped a run of five games scoring 12 or more points here. Valanciunas remains extremely consistent and should retain a high floor moving forward.
Feb 5, 2020
Active Wednesday
Valanciunas (knee) is active for Wednesday's matchup against Dallas.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas appeared on the injury report ahead of Wednesday's contest with apparent right knee soreness. His injury doesn't appear to be too severe however, as the center will be available for the Grizzlies on Wednesday. Valanciunas is currently averaging 15.2 points and 10.3 rebounds over 47 contests this year.
Feb 4, 2020
Managing knee soreness
Valanciunas is questionable for Wednesday's game against the Mavericks with right knee soreness.
ANALYSIS
The 27-year-old apparently picked up the injury during Monday's 26-point, 17-rebound performance against the Pistons. Brandon Clarke and Solomon Hill likely would see increased minutes should Valanciunas be unable to suit up.
Feb 4, 2020
Dominant in victory
Valanciunas ended with 26 points (13-19 FG, 0-2 3Pt, 0-1 FT), 17 rebounds, four blocks and two assists in 30 minutes during Monday's 96-82 victory over the Pistons.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas was at his dominant best Monday, amassing a big double-double in the victory. He appeared to relish the challenge of coming up against Andre Drummond, matching him stride-for-stride in a classic big man battle. Valanciunas has been a top-20 player over the past month and with the Grizzlies pushing for a playoff berth, his role should remain secure moving forward.
Feb 1, 2020
Two boards shy of double-double
Valanciunas scored 18 points (8-13 FG, 1-3 3Pt, 1-1 FT), eight rebounds, four blocks and one steal in 27 minutes during Friday's 139-111 loss at New Orleans.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has scored in double digits in four straight games and from a statistical point of view, January has been his best month of the season -- he averaged 16.2 points, 10.9 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game over that span. He also tied his season-high mark in blocks in this contest, and he has been getting the job done on both ends of the court over the last few weeks.
Jan 29, 2020
Grabs 12 boards in win over Denver
Valanciunas posted 23 points (11-19 FG, 1-3 FT), 12 rebounds, three assists, one steal and one block in 34 minutes during Tuesday's 104-96 win over the Nuggets.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas had a tough matchup dealing with Nikola Jokic down low, but he looked impressive on route towards his fifth double-double of the month. The Lithuanian big man has had double-digit points and/or rebounds in all but one game during January, and he is averaging 16.4 points with 11.0 rebounds during the first month of the year. He has also grabbed 10 or more boards in five of his last six outings.
Jan 23, 2020
Another double-double
Valanciunas had 16 points (7-13 FG, 1-2 3PT, 1-2 FT), 13 rebounds, two blocks, two steals and one assist in 26 minutes during Wednesday's 119-95 loss at Boston.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has had double-digit points and/or rebounds in each of his last six games, tallying three double-doubles over that span. He's never going to be Memphis' go-to guy on offense, but he has done enough to remain a productive player on both ends on the court and should remain on that note ahead of Friday's road matchup at Detroit.
Jan 21, 2020
Posts double-double
Valanciunas had 14 points (6-8 FG, 2-4 FT),11 rebounds, two steals and one assist in 21 minutes during Monday's 126-116 loss against the Pelicans.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has had double-digit points or rebounds in each of his last five games, but he has posted double-doubles just twice during that stretch. He is averaging 18.6 points and 12.6 rebounds in 28.0 minutes per game over that span, and the Lithuanian big man should remain a reliable fantasy asset moving forward even if he's not the team's go-to guy on offense.
Jan 17, 2020
Grabs 18 boards in win
Valanciunas recorded eight points (4-11 FG, 0-2 FT), 18 rebounds, four assists and four blocks in 32 minutes during Friday's 113-109 victory over Cleveland.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas struggled from the field but still managed to end with a stellar fantasy line. As well as hauling in 18 rebounds, Valanciunas matched his season-high with four blocks. He has been a top-25 player over the past month in only 27 minutes per game. The Grizzlies are one of the hottest teams in the league right now and despite the impressive play of Brandon Clarke, Valanciunas should still have a consistent role moving forward.
Jan 14, 2020
Drops 19 in win
Valanciunas contributed 19 points (8-14 FG, 0-2 3Pt, 3-4 FT), six rebounds, two assists and a block in 28 minutes during the Grizzlies' 121-110 win over Houston on Tuesday night.
ANALYSIS
Coming off of a 31-point, 19-rebound explosion on Sunday, Valanciunas came back to earth a bit on Tuesday. He was still one of six Grizzlies with double-digit scoring on the way to their sixth straight win. He is a fringe top-10 asset at the center position in fantasy.
Jan 12, 2020
Drops 31 points, 19 boards
Valanciunas delivered 31 points (13-17 FG, 1-2 3Pt, 4-5 FT), 19 rebounds, two blocks, one assist and one steal in 29 minutes during Sunday's 122-102 win over the Warriors.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas supplied a season high in rebounding while finishing with more points than minutes and barely missing from the field. He has 19 double-doubles through 37 appearances, which puts him on pace to shatter his previous record of 29 (back in 2016-17).
Jan 11, 2020
One rebound shy of double-double
Valanciunas scored 21 points (6-11 FG, 1-2 3Pt, 0-0 FT) while adding nine rebounds, three assists and a block in 30 minutes during Friday's 134-121 win over the Spurs.
ANALYSIS
Valanciunas has been a bit inconsistent of late, alternating single-digit scoring games with performances of over 20. He'll look to get back to his consistent ways against the Warriors on Sunday.