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TSN Basketball Analyst

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TSN basketball analyst Jack Armstrong drops by with thoughts on a new contract for Raptors centre Jonas Valanciunas and four players who could help Canada's men's basketball team at the FIBA Americas Olympic qualifying tournament in Mexico City later this month.

1. Jonas Valanciunas: Reports are swirling that the Raptors are going to extend the big fella going into his fourth NBA season. It’s a move that makes complete sense to me. I know the dollar numbers that get thrown around are stunning these days, but this will become the new normal based on the huge financial windfall that is approaching from the new television deal for both owners and players. If you can lock up a 23-year-old centre whose best days are ahead of him in an Eastern Conference where he can become one of the better big men for a long time, you do it. The NBA is moving toward a ‘small ball' mentality, yet Valanciunas brings sound value. The Raptors have to figure out more creative ways to take advantage of what he can do rather than focus on what he can't. It's on JV to take the next steps as a defensive player and consistent offensive presence to prove to coach Dwane Casey that he's going to be an asset in the fourth quarter and someone that the team can build around.  On the other hand, if I'm Toronto I take a slow wait-and-see approach on Terrence Ross. He has a lot to prove and a lot to play for this season. Make him earn it and show that he can be trusted on a daily basis to be a guy you can count on to produce.

2. Nik Stauskas: It’s nice to see him involved with Team Canada at camp. I think the move from the Kings to the 76ers is a positive trade for him because he'll get a greater opportunity to play. These are a huge few weeks coming up for him in Puerto Rico and Mexico City. He's a very talented young player with excellent shooting skills and a nice feel for the game. An experience like this can propel your career significantly. I hope he takes full advantage.

3. Robert Sacre: An experienced big man with an NBA background always helps. Having been a member of Team Canada in the past helps his chances of making this team as well. The Los Angeles Lakers centre is hard-nosed and tough. He’s always willing to mix it up, and you need a few tough guys to make sure things are under control in the paint. Sacre is a high-energy guy who brings his best each day.                    

4. Jamal Murray: The emerging guard will be playing for the Kentucky Wildcats this season. His presence in camp for Team Canada after an impressive showing in the Pan Am Games is another example of the depth and growth of the national program. Having young players like Murray part of the future of the team is a great sign of progress. The best is yet to come.              

5. Kelly Olynyk: I like where this guy is heading in his career. He plays for a terrific coach in Boston in Brad Stevens, and has the experience of playing for Team Canada. Canada coach Jay Triano is creative and will put him in spots to grow and excel. I love his face-up game and he is a sound passer. Olynyk will improve as a rebounder and defender as he gains strength and stamina. He'll compete for you and I see his game blossoming in the next few years. He's not a low post bruiser, but in today's spread out NBA, where your power forward and centre are required to be pretty versatile, he's got the goods to be on the floor to compliment your scheme.