Toronto Raptors: 3 players who could earn spots on 2021 roster in April and May

No 3: SF Rodney Hood

The trade that sent Norman Powell to Portland and brought Gary Trent Jr. to Toronto wasn’t a straight swap, as it brought the eight-figure contract of Hood to the Raptors in the deal. Hood is looking to give Masai Ujiri a reason to guarantee his money for the 2021 season instead of letting him hit free agency.

Hood, before he tore his Achilles with Portland, was a former first-round pick out of Duke that could average double-digits with his eyes closed given his 6-8 frame and sweet shot. The prototypical small forward, Hood’s explosion has been limited due to his injury. 5.2 points per game on 40% shooting is slightly above his Trail Blazers averages, but that isn’t saying much.

Will the Raptors bring back Rodney Hood in 2021?

Hood might have the most to prove out of anyone in this stretch of games. Not only will he have to show that he can reclaim his old form and become the premier perimeter scorer off of the bench, but he needs to show he can be competent in that regard. If he progresses enough, a reunion might make sense for both parties.

Bringing back Hood might be met with some initial skepticism, as this year is proving he is firmly on the back end of his career. However, if Toronto is serious about contending next year, they could use a seventh man with his pedigree, and that might be enough to win a second go-around, especially if he bumps his shooting numbers up.