3 former Toronto Raptors that could return to Canada this offseason

TORONTO, ON - MAY 15: Bismack Biyombo #8 of the Toronto Raptors celebrates late in the second half of Game Seven of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals against the Miami Heat during the 2016 NBA Playoffs at the Air Canada Centre on May 15, 2016 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. 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 Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)
TORONTO, ON - MAY 15: Bismack Biyombo #8 of the Toronto Raptors celebrates late in the second half of Game Seven of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals against the Miami Heat during the 2016 NBA Playoffs at the Air Canada Centre on May 15, 2016 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. 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 Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images) /
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Cameron Payne, Phoenix Suns, Toronto Raptors free agency
TAMPA, FLORIDA – MARCH 26: Cameron Payne #15 of the Phoenix Suns (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /

1. PG Cameron Payne

Now you may have blinked and missed it, but yes, Payne was a member of the Raptors organization for an incredibly brief time. After playing a grand total of 12 minutes in a pre-season game against the Rockets in 2019, Payne was released by the Raptors.

While his time in Toronto was far from memorable, since being released by the Raptors, Payne has found his game within the NBA. This became clear in the 2020-21 season as Payne thrived off the bench for the Suns, playing major minutes throughout their memorable NBA Finals run.

The lottery pick from Murray State has shown he has what it takes to prove his doubters wrong, and returning to a team that barely gave him the time of day it could be the ultimate show of how far he has come in his career.

Will Cameron Payne return to the Toronto Raptors?

With Kyle Lowry likely on his way out of Toronto, the Raptors are in need of a capable ball-handler at the point. Payne has demonstrated he can handle the reigns of a fast-paced offense and could be a fantastic addition to the roster. While there are big shoes to fill within Scotia Bank Arena, Payne has never shied away from the spotlight.

After his breakout season with the Suns, it is fair to say Payne will be looking for a solid payday this offseason. While he may be looking for a big deal, the Raptors could not only give Payne a fair offer for his services, but also a large role on a team that is on the rise within the East.

Payne is likely to see several suitors this offseason, as his speed and smooth shooting stroke have made him a highly sought-after talent. While it did not work out the first time around, perhaps, in this case, the sequel could be better than the original.

Next. Top 3 worst Raptors free agent contracts. dark