Toronto Raptors: Top 5 Jonas Valanciunas highlights
By Paul Taylor
5) Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month
Valanciunas was selected fifth overall in the 2011 draft. However, the Raptors and their fans had to wait until the 2012-13 season to see him in the NBA.
The Lithuanian international made an immediate impression on his debut, with 12 points, 10 rebounds and a block. In the process, he became the first Raptors rookie to record a double-double in his debut since 1995.
Valanciunas went on to have a good rookie season in general. The high point came, when he was named Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month for March.
The centre ranked first among Eastern Conference rookies in rebounds, blocks and field goal percentage. He also finished second in free throw percentage and fourth in scoring.
The scoring was particularly significant, with Valanciunas reaching double figures in 11 of his final 12 games during March. This run of form continued through the first four games in April, extending his run of double figures to 15 of 16 contests.