3 fringe Raptors roster players who deserve to return in 2022-23

The Toronto Raptors have been boosted by some fantastic Masai Ujiri moves over the last 12 months, but the back end of the roster has given them some solid depth. When starters have needed to sit out for a game or two, Toronto has picked up the pace by leaning on a colorful cast of characters.

From rookies trying to find their way to established veterans and redemption stories, Toronto has been able to get some surprising production from players that might have been passed over by the larger NBA landscape. Nick Nurse’s ability to identify and develop talent is paying dividends.

The Raptors will likely remake the roster in the offseason in order to address some of their shortcomings, and that fact is hanging over the end of the roster like the Sword of Damocles. One or two more experienced names coming to Toronto could force these reserves out of town.

Given how well they’ve finished the season, these 3 Raptors have earned a spot on next year’s roster, even if they need to compete with some other partially guaranteed deals to secure their spot on the final 15. They could be the next great Raptors development story if everything goes their way.

3 Toronto Raptors players who should be back in 2022-23.

3. SG Armoni Brooks

Brooks was signed to a 10-day deal after being let go by a Houston team that ranks near the bottom of the standings. Brooks has made Houston regret parting ways with him, as he has agreed to a multi-year contract with Toronto that has some partial guarantees if he is on the opening night roster.

While Brooks has made just 28% of his 3-point shots despite his reputation as a sniper from long-range, it’s hard to get into a rhythm when you’re playing a handful of minutes every night. In true Raptors fashion, they’ve taken a below-average defender and turned him into a contributor on both ends.

Armoni Brooks might be a solid backup for the Toronto Raptors.

Brooks is averaging just under two steals and one block per 36 minutes. That defensive intensity and feel for the game is impressive to see from a player who was a complete sieve with Houston. The shot will eventually come around if Toronto continues to trust in his ability.

With Malachi Flynn not a sure thing to return to Toronto for his third season and the front office lacking a first-round pick to use on a Fred VanVleet backup, Brooks has as good a chance of earning that backup point guard spot. His 3-point shot returning would do wonders.