Grading the Toronto Raptors’ offseason pickups
By Staff
Mar 30, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) guards Atlanta Hawks forward DeMarre Carroll (5) in the first quarter of their game at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
DeMarre Carroll (SF 4 year/60 mil): A
We finally have a good small forward. Gone are the days when we had to start Terrence Ross or James Johnson at the 3. This is the biggest signing for the Raps this year. Carroll provides a huge spark to the team as a whole.
The Raptors ranked 23rd in defensive efficiency and last season Carroll held opponents to only 41% from the field. Not only does he help us with defence, he’s also a strong inside presence, fighting for rebounds on every play.
Carroll is able to switch from SF to PF on the fly, but Casey has yet to determine where he plays most of his minutes. Is it an overpay? Slightly, but once the new TV deal arrives and the cap goes up, the deal won’t look as big as it does right now.
I think it’s worth it to sign a guy that fills a gaping hole in our starting lineup (created by someone who’s name rhymes with Rerrence Toss).
Next: Louis Scola