NBA: Biggest X-factor for all 30 teams in the 2019-20 season

Memphis Grizzlies: Jonas Valanciunas

After being acquired by the Memphis Grizzlies at the February deadline, Jonas Valanciunas proceded with quite the first impression in putting up the best numbers of his career.

He averaged 19.2 points, 10.7 rebounds and 1.7 blocks — all career-highs — in under 28 minutes a night, prompting his new team to hand him a three-year, $45 million deal.

Where his superb production may give some cause for pause is considering it came over just 19 games to close out a 33-win season for the Grizzlies.

Was this the sign of potential that never saw the light of day up north or the all too common situation that sees a player secure a lucrative contract without living up to it soon after?

Valanciunas does not find himself part of a title contender nor is he part of a team likely to make the playoffs.

The Grizzlies have assembled a promising young nucleus. Now comes the next phase that includes translating that potential into wins, a task the playoff-tested veteran can certainly help with.

His low-post game is reminiscent of big men from a previous area, but Valanciunas also possesses a methodical pump fake he can use to bully his way to the basket. He and Jarren Jackson Jr. should make for a nice duo in the frontcourt with their complementary skills.

Short of a breakout All-Star campaign, nothing Valanciunas does will get Memphis into the postseason picture. For this developing squad, it’s about taking another step forward in their rebuild.

Should JV continue his surprising level of production, it won’t only nudge the Grizzlies up the standings but will also rub off in ways that can help his teammates for years to come.