In a decision that shocked some fans of the Toronto Raptors, the team has reportedly decided not to give championship rings to ex-teammates Jonas Valanciunas, Delon Wright, and C.J. Miles.
All three players were sent to the Memphis Grizzlies in the trade that landed the Raptors Marc Gasol before last season’s trade deadline.
“It’s their decision,” Valanciunas said while shaking his head. “They made a decision and took care, right?”
"It's their decision"
— Yahoo Sports Canada (@YahooCASports) November 18, 2019
Jonas Valanciunas had some words after receiving the news that he won't get a ring. pic.twitter.com/UVVLvGEryG
The former Raptor was previously rumoured to receive the jewelery, after the big man hinted that Raptors guard Kyle Lowry texted him, asking his JV’s size.
Around the league, it’s not common to give former players a championship ring, as Raptors General Manager Bobby Webster pointed out earlier this week.
“It’s not an easy decision but, to be honest, I think it’s standard,” Webster told The Toronto Sun. “I mean we did our homework, we talked to teams and I think — I don’t remember — there was maybe one scenario where a team offered one. I think it was Anderson Varejao in Golden State but I think it was a really unique circumstance.
“It’s obviously not a feel-good thing but I think that’s the way the league is.”
Meanwhile, Valanciunas is focusing his attention on his season with his current team.
“[Only] think about Grizzlies now, right?”
A fifth-overall selection in 2011, Valanciunas played more than six seasons for the Raptors.
More Raptors coverage from Yahoo Sports
