Should the Raptors sign Thad Young for 2022-23 and beyond?
By Mike Luciano
Final Verdict
The Raptors should make a push to retain Young in 2022-23, provided that they can settle on a number just outside of the eight-figure range. Young’s skill set is what Nurse and Ujiri are prioritizing, and it’s hard to find someone with his combination of production and experience.
While not an amazing spot-up or 3-point shooter, Young has proven to be reliable enough in this area to give the Raptors a slight boost. Switchable defense is the key to making this roster work, and you find many forwards on the open market that can check that box in the manner Young can.
The Toronto Raptors could use Thad Young.
It would not surprise anyone for a second if Young went into coaching when his playing career ends. Having a sharp basketball mind next to players like a potential Rookie of the Year in Barnes and Achiuwa would be an invaluable asset as they try to shift from playoff team to contender.
Toronto already has a strong starting lineup featuring two All-Stars, one of the game’s best rookies, a standout shooting guard, and a versatile defensive chess piece. If Ujiri runs it back and decides against making a major move and decides to make minor additions here and there to beef up the bench, Young makes a ton of sense.