Raptors point guard Delon Wright may be in line for a hefty raise in pay after this season. Conversely, the team may decide he’s too expensive. Which position makes sense?
In 2017, Kyle Lowry signed his 3 year 100 million dollar contract to stay with the team. This offseason, Fred VanVleet and Lorenzo Brown returned to the team with new contracts. In 2019, Delon Wright will be a restricted free agent. Discussions on where he fits with the team will surely carry on to next year when Raptors management must decide on whether or not to bring him back.
The 2019 free agency class will feature Kyrie Irving, Kemba Walker, Goran Dragic, and Eric Bledsoe among others. There are a few all-star caliber point guards in this class that developing teams could attempt to sign, but most of those guards are looking to win now on a playoff contending team. This opens up space for a team to take a flyer on Delon Wright. Delon has been waiting for a larger role since the moment he was drafted. Before being recognized as the third point guard behind VanVleet and Lowry, he was seen as the third point guard behind Cory Joseph and Lowry. He will the opportunity this season to play for a larger role on the Raptors or another team.
Delon’s performance went under the radar last year behind Lowry’s all-star season and VanVleet being named a Sixth Man Of The Year candidate. With the addition of multiple ball handlers and perimeter defenders, there isn’t much room for the fourth year point guard. However, I saw him as one of the more improved players from last year and other teams will surely be looking for his services. Let’s discuss the value of Delon Wright’s next contract based on his overall play and teams that should be interested.