Toronto Raptors talent Jonas Valanciunas has been in the midst of trade rumors during the past few weeks and most-recently involved in a point-guard-and-center swap alongside teammate Kyle Lowry for the Memphis Grizzlies duo of Mike Conley and Marc Gasol. The 7-footer has grown used to hearing his name around the trade deadline, but would prefer to remain in Toronto, if given the choice.
“I've been in rumors so many times I don't even look at it,” said Valanciunas, who is expected to return from a 25-game absence, according to Josh Lewenberg of TSN. “I just know one thing, we have a good team, we have a good future in front of us. I just want to go on the court and play ball and win games. I love Toronto and I want to stay here.”
Valanciunas has been in murky waters ever since he failed to show breakout potential after his first few seasons, despite showing glimpses of progress.
The Lithuanian international was recently demoted to a bench role under new coach Nick Nurse, which has decreased his trade value, despite being only 26 years old and bound to hit his prime as a player.
Valanciunas has been excellent under Nurse, putting up 12.8 points and 7.2 rebounds in only 18.8 minutes per game this season.
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