Toronto Raptors: Three potential free-agent signings
The Toronto Raptors roster is largely decided. However, with two spots still available, these free-agents could provide value at the veterans minimum.
NBA Free-Agency is an event. Each year, prospective teams clear large amounts of cap-space in the hopes of drawing a big-name free-agent. Fans applaud their GM for bringing in All-Star or even starter level talent.
No-one seems to care who is signed to the 14th and 15th roster spots. Yet, time and time again we see playoff contributors on minimum contracts. Last season, David West, Luc Richard Mbah a Moute, and Raymond Felton were all key contributors picked up for the veterans minimum the prior offseason.
With only two remaining roster spots, the Raptors 2018-2019 roster is largely accounted for. With that being said, there are still some valuable veterans that may be receptive to a minimum contract for a good team.
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Arron Afflalo
Last season Arron Afflalo played spot minutes for a tanking team, that’s focus was clearly on developing young players rather than trying to win games. During his stint in Orlando, Afflalo averaged 9.4 points per 36 minutes with an EFG-percentage of 48.5-percent, the lowest values since his rookie season.
Next season, if placed in a more competitive situation I still believe he can provide value. Afflalo is a complimentary player and needs to be utilized as such. A capable shooter and crafty veteran, Toronto could find value in Afflalo next season.
Corey Brewer
By far the biggest contributor of the group, Corey Brewer started all six Oklahoma City playoff games last year. However with Andre Roberson coming back and the Thunder current salary bill greater than $300 million currently, OKC may not have room for the wiry shooting guard.
If available for the veterans minimum, the Raptors would be thrilled to sign Corey Brewer. Unfortunately for Toronto, signing Brewer would likely cost a little more than that. There is not currently a huge market for Brewer, but considering his talent, probably enough of a market to force Toronto to use part of their Mid-Level Exception. Without a clear spot in the rotation, the value is not quite as clear.
Joe Johnson
A Raptors’ target after his buyout mid-season last year, Joe Johnson did not live up to expectations during his tenure in Houston. Too slow to play their switching style, Johnson simply could not stay on the court defensively.
Toronto is built to play a more traditional style defense. If asked to guard only power-forwards, particularly Eastern Conference power forwards, Johnson still can get the job done. Offensively, Iso-Joe can still get a bucket.
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The common thread between all three contributors is experience. Toronto is a deep team. If any of these players are brought in, it’s very possible they might not receive consistent playing time. Older players tend to understand their role and are less likely to demand minutes. Having a professional is key, particularly for end of the rotation players.