Toronto Raptors: Top 5 Jonas Valanciunas highlights

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TORONTO, ON – MAY 04: Jonas Valanciunas #17 of the Toronto Raptors tries to make a shot over Andray Blatche #0 of the Brooklyn Nets in Game Seven of the NBA Eastern Conference Quarterfinals at the Air Canada Centre on May 4, 2014 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The Nets defeated the Raptors 114-113 to win the series 4-3. NOTE TO USER: user expressly acknowledges and agrees by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Claus Andersen/Getty Images) /

2) A record-breaking playoff debut

Some players wilt under the pressure of playoff basketball, while others thrive. As far as we’re concerned, Valanciunas comes in the latter category.

This was pretty evident right from the word go. Making his playoff debut against the Brooklyn Nets, Valanciunas immediately made his presence felt.

The 2013 All-Rookie Second Team selection scored 17 points and grabbed 18 rebounds which, at the time, set a new franchise record for boards in a playoff game. He also became only the second ever Raptors player to register a double-double in his postseason debut.

The only downside was that the Raptors lost Game 1 94-87. However, Valanciunas continued his form into Game 2, with 15 points and 14 rebounds to help tie the first round series at 1-1.

Despite having home court advantage, the Raptors would go on to lose the series 4-3. Regardless, at least Valanciunas proved he belonged on the big stage, finishing his first ever postseason averaging 10.9 points by shooting .633 percent, along with 9.7 rebounds and one block per contest.

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