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Toronto Raptors: 4 players Toronto can add post-deadline

By Ben Fisher

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - JANUARY 31: Norman Powell #24 of the Toronto Raptors takes a shot past Andre Drummond #0 of the Detroit Pistons during the second half at Little Caesars Arena on January 31, 2020 in Detroit, Michigan. Toronto won the game 105-92.NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
DETROIT, MICHIGAN - JANUARY 31: Norman Powell #24 of the Toronto Raptors takes a shot past Andre Drummond #0 of the Detroit Pistons during the second half at Little Caesars Arena on January 31, 2020 in Detroit, Michigan. Toronto won the game 105-92.NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /
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Gary Payton II
Will Gary Payton II return to the NBA with the Raptors? (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images) /

Toronto Raptors target No. 4: Gary Payton II

On Thursday, Toronto landed a second-generation NBA’er in Trent Jr. (and a second-generation Raptor, for that matter), could another second-generation guard named Gary join him? In an homage to dad and NBA legend Gary “The Glove” Payton, 28-year-old G League journeyman Gary Payton II has been nicknamed “The Mitten”.

While there is plenty of reason to be wary of a player who would actually be the fourth-oldest on the roster and has bounced around through eight stints on five different G League clubs, Payton II shares his dad’s defensive instincts and intensity.

Gary Payton II played lights-out basketball for the Toronto Raptors

He was recently recognized as the league’s Defensive Player of the Year, flashing a skill set that would certainly play well with the Raps.

Now, before anyone starts celebrating Payton as some kind of second coming of his father, it’s worth noting that sub-par three-point shooting and a general lack of offensive skill have held the Oregon State alum to 61 NBA games across four seasons with three different teams.

If he is ever going to stick as an NBA regular, now might be his time. He’s improved enough on offense in the G League to earn a shot with the Raptors.