Toronto Raptors: Welcoming culture could make Toronto a free agent hotspot in offseason

With a win last night against the Orlando Magic, the Toronto Raptors are in a three-way tie for the final play-in spot. For most fans, the recent two-game win streak has come as a surprise, as most Raptors starters are either injured or out resting.

During this time, the likes of Paul Watson, Freddie Gillespie, and Gary Trent Jr. have stepped up for the Raptors. With the former two on non-guaranteed contracts, and the latter a restricted free agent, they are doing everything they can to prove that they should stick around in Toronto

Not only did Watson have the best night of his career last night, but Gillespie has made a strong case for a permanent contract while Trent is starting to confirm he can be an important part of Toronto’s core in the future.

If the Raptors play their cards right, considering how much cap space they could have in the offseason, Masai Ujiri might be able to lure a few potential stars to Toronto, as their culture has been absolutely adored by all three of these players.

The Toronto Raptors could intrigue free agents due to their culture

Watson had a career night, scoring 30 points with eight made 3-pointers. He credited the support he got from the Raptors for his success. In the post-game interview, he was asked about the bench reaction after each made three. Watson mentioned that he felt “good to see how much fun they were having with it,” and appreciated the support.

Watson is currently on a two-year contract with the Raptors and will be a restricted free agent in 2022. His play continues to impress and shows promise, and Watson could be looking elsewhere as a valuable piece if he does not re-sign with Toronto.

Gillespie is looking to sign a second 10-day contract with the Raptors after a breakout game against the Spurs. He had nine points, eight rebounds, and three blocks in just 19 minutes on the floor. The 23-year-old mentioned after the game that the Raptors were “supportive” and “encouraging” and made the transition “seamless” in his first 10-day contract with the team.

Although Gillespie came in to fill a void in the center position, he has proven that he’s worthy of a contract, possibly in the offseason. A power-forward who is energetic and can crash the boards while being efficient is something all NBA teams look for. If one of those types needs a new destination in 2021, Toronto certainly seems like a place in which they could thrive.

Trent is finding his touch in Toronto, as he has quickly become a fan favorite. Since coming in via trade for Norman Powell, he has hit on career numbers in just 11 games played for the Raptors. After scoring a career-high 44 points against the Cavaliers and hitting a game-winner against the Wizards, Trent Jr. said he felt “wanted” for the first time in his three-year career in the NBA.

The Raptors welcome Trent Jr. with open arms and are glad he has made himself comfortable with the team. However, he is set to become a restricted free agent in the off-season, which can be a challenge for Toronto.

Other teams in the NBA are definitely taking notice of his recent success and can offer him a large contract. The hope, though, is that he stays put and becomes an important piece moving forward for the Raptors.

Let’s say you’re a young guard looking for a place to continue your NBA journey. Trent is not only improving his production, but he is taking on an increased role while remaining a fan favorite. Toronto could give them that chance.

For all three players, Watson, Gillespie, and Trent Jr, the welcoming culture of the Raptors have sparked some unforgettable moments as part of the team. The hope is that they stay in Toronto, but it can also interest other NBA franchises.