1. Montrezl Harrell, Los Angeles Lakers
The phrase “you know what you’re going to get” can apply to a few big-name players in the NBA, but Montrezl Harrell’s role has been so rigid over the last two years that the old axiom fits him perfectly. Harrell is the perfect reserve big man, and he perfected that craft to the point he was named Sixth Man of the Year.
With the Clippers and Lakers, Harrell has averaged 16.6 points and 6.2 rebounds per game over the last three seasons, making his mark as a rim-runner on offense and a ferocious defensive rebounder that will outhustle anyone to snatch some rebounds. Sound like what the Raptors looked like last year? Didn’t think so.
Montrezl Harrell could change how the Raptors line up.
Even if Siakam’s shoulder was made out of adamantium, Harrell would’ve been worth looking at for the Raptors. His defense is horrific, yes, and he doesn’t become much of a factor when he leaves the paint, but his hustle and rebounding acumen could be the shot of caffeine this bench needs.
Harrell has only started 3 games in the past two years, but with Chris Boucher the likeliest player to be moved into the starting lineup to replace Siakam, Harrell can make sure Toronto’s bench doesn’t sacrifice depth or quality. He’ll be trying to secure the bag this offseason, but Toronto should sate his desire.