Toronto Raptors: Each player’s likelihood to return next season
By Jeff Borsuk
Jodie Meeks
Jodie Meeks joined on with the Raptors in time to be a part of their postseason. He was added to be a three-point specialist and give the Raptors another weapon off the bench. Unfortunately, it looked as though Nick Nurse lost confidence in Meeks as the team went deeper in the playoffs. His minutes were reduced and he was held out of most games, being relegated to just garbage time.
At age 32, Meeks may not be the best choice to add valuable minutes off the bench. Unless he provides leadership in the locker room that is unseen on the court, the Raptors should be able to find a player of equal or greater talent to invest in that could also add youthful energy to a team full of veterans.
Chance at returning next year: 20 percent
Eric Moreland
Eric Moreland served as a late addition to help the team depth at the center position. He first signed a 10-day contract in March and was then brought back to go to the playoffs with the Raptors. Moreland played at the end of the bench behind both Gasol and Ibaka and saw little floor time for the team. He was the third center, in case of emergency option.
That same spot will be filled by a player who the team can pick up cheaply. Moreland was on a minimum contract, and would likely sign a minimum if offered by the team once again.
The Raptors will surely be looking to upgrade at the position, but money will continue to be a large factor in who occupies the role next season.
Chance at returning next year: 15-percent
Patrick McCaw
Patrick McCaw missed a handful of games for personal reasons in the playoffs but did manage to play spot minutes in games where he was available. As another depth piece, who can give a different look to the team, he is an intriguing player.
McCaw was one of the only “end-of-the-bench” players who was given time to play in the Finals. Nurse trusts his defensive impact, but he will need to make improvements offensively if he wants to be a real rotation piece.
Provided the Raptors extend the qualifying figure of $1,818,486, McCaw will be a restricted free-agent this offseason. Unfortunately, Toronto does not have his full “bird rights” and might not be able to match another team’s full offer without using their exceptions or making moves. If anyone prioritizes McCaw for $3 million or more, he’s probably gone.
Chance at returning next year: 25-percent
Jeremy Lin
#LinSanity never swept Toronto. Jeremy Lin signed with the team after he was waived by the Atlanta Hawks. This allowed him to go to the postseason with the Raps. Unfortunately, after being a disappointment during the regular season, he did not get much of a shot to prove himself in the playoffs. For this reason, Lin’s time in the Six has probably expired.