Toronto Raptors:Two potential free-agents worth 10-day contracts

With the playoffs approaching, the Toronto Raptors should look to add a veteran contributor with a 10-day contract. These two candidates stick out above the rest.

The Toronto Raptors have established themselves as a top 5 team in the NBA. Yet, like all teams, they need an insurance option.  With CJ Miles struggling with inconsistency and Kawhi Leonard’s playing time being regulated, Toronto can do with some extra depth.

Though guys like Norman Powell and OG Anunoby are capable of stepping into any role, they cannot be depended on so heavily. Toronto could use help from a veteran presence.

Signing another player as extra cover, perhaps even a wildcard, may pay dividends in the long run.

10-Day Contract Candidates

Joe Johnson:

It’s quite easy to build a case for Johnson. Joe has always been an asset offensively, shooting a career 37-percent from three-point land, but his length also allows him to hold his own defensively when locked in. Notable performances during Utah’s playoff runs have proved Johnson to still be capable of stepping up when needed. Given the opportunity, he is capable of contributing in valuable ways.

Furthermore, Johnson also brings an important veteran’s presence. His high level of experience will play a big role in helping the Raptors keep its composure in big games & key moments. While a forgettable season with the Houston Rockets does raise some concern. It can also be chalked up to Mike D’Antoni‘s short rotation. Giving Joe Johnson a shot at showing he’s still got it may be worth Toronto’s time.

Nick Young:

On the other hand, building a case for Nick Young isn’t quite easy, but the argument is simple. One thing you can never have too much of in today’s NBA is too many three-point shooters.

This is exactly, and perhaps the only, thing Nick Young brings. A talented shooter from distance (38%), his simple skill will prove to be valuable when the Raptors need a cluster of points or simply need to spread the floor to open up the game.

The Raptors are shooting a team 34.8 percent from downtown, ranking 18th in the league. Currently, Toronto’s competitors (Milwaukee, Denver, Golden State, Boston) all rank above them making this a worrying statistic. Toronto’s marksmen struggling with inconsistent shooting only adds to this issue, removing all sense of reliability from beyond the 3 point line.

Another three-point specialist would also play as a safety blanket in case the Raptors ending up dealing with “off-days”. On a 10-day contract, Young comes with minimal risk. The Raptors would be wise to consider snagging another shooter in a three-point heavy NBA.

Do the Toronto Raptors need to make a move

The simple answer is, no. The Raptors have a talented roster that is already capable of winning the championship. With that being said, signing a free agent just in case would only benefit them.

Anyways, it’s no secret you can’t win an NBA championship without role players.