Toronto Raptors: 3 free agent centers Toronto could use to fill a roster spot
By Mike Luciano
Toronto Raptors center target No. 1: Damian Jones
Jones shot 94% from the field during his stint with the Lakers, and that is in no way a misprint. Jones played in eight games for LA, starting six, all the while averaging 5.4 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks per game. When extrapolated out to 36 minutes per game, Jones’ numbers look a touch better.
Jones averaged 13.8 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per 36 minutes during his time with the Lakers. A former first-round pick out of Vanderbilt with the Golden State Warriors, Jones hasn’t gotten a fair shake, as most of his experience in the NBA has been as a completely ancillary player on some good teams.
Damian Jones could be a bruiser inside for the Toronto Raptors
Jones should absolutely start over Baynes, as he has a much higher ceiling on the defensive end and is a better rebounder. Picking up a new starter off of the free-agent scrap heap would be an absolute steal bu Ujiri and this front office, and Jones’ efficiency this season should give Toronto confidence in him.
Yes, Jones is a non-factor on offense the second he steps out of the paint, but the Raptors just need someone that can vacuum up tough rebounds, block a shot, and roll to the basket in order to be on the receiving end of Kyle Lowry lobs. Jones won’t cost a ton to bring in, and he could be on the team next year.