Toronto Raptors & expiring contracts – who stays, who goes?
By Brian Boake
The Toronto Raptors have six players on expiring contracts, an unusually large number. Given how close we are to the NBA’s trade deadline of February 19, it’s certainly time to consider whether some of these players should be moved out. This is the period when expiring contracts have considerable value, particularly for rebuilding teams. The Raps are no longer in that state (hallelujah!), so who can we package up, and who should be on the To-Do list of players to be re-signed in the off-season?
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Feb 6, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Los Angeles Clippers point guard Chris Paul (3) passes the ball against Toronto Raptors forward Amir Johnson (15) at Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports
SO LONG, FAREWELL
Tyler Hansbrough – While I like his feistiness, I don’t like much else. [20-second timeout: My younger son said at the Washington game, after Tyler fumbled a pass out of bounds: “Tyler, get some hands, bro”.] Unless he wants to return on a veteran’s minimum, he’s trade bait, and not someone I’d offer a new contract to.
Landry Fields – He’s certainly not the first athlete whose career was ruined by injury, but it’s sad every time. We wish him good fortune wherever he goes. Landry has acquitted himself with class.
Chuck Hayes – A man who deserves all kinds of credit for carving out a career for himself against long odds. Oddly enough, I hope he doesn’t get moved, as he’s likely to be more valuable in the playoffs than the regular season. Chuck will be 32 when next season starts. I’d be surprised if anyone picks him up.
ON THE BUBBLE
Greg Stiemsma – He’s a cheap insurance policy for injuries to our front court. Somebody’s got to fill the job – why not Steamer?
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- Raptors fans will love Markquis Nowell’s insane confidence on Instagram
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BRING THEM BACK, MASAI
Louis Williams – This fellow has been a godsend, particularly considering how little we gave up to acquire him. He’ll just turn 29 as next season commences, and should be a valuable contributor for at least 3 more years.
Amir Johnson – Sure, he’s got bad ankles, and takes some nights off. Amir’s value to the Raptors is so much more than what he does on the court (and there are many games when he does a lot). He’s the quiet heart and soul of the locker room. Amir wants to be a career Raptor, and I hope his wish is granted.
IN CONCLUSION…
I’ll be adding the first three players into more Trade Proposals. After the trade deadline passes, we’ll know who’s still wearing our uniform. My guess is they all will, but only Masai knows.
Then comes time to look at other team’s free agents – who should we be targeting? That’s a juicy topic, and one in which I hope I’ll hear from you, Rapture Nation, with a bunch of suggested players.