Are Raptors interested in bringing back PF Reggie Perry?
By Mike Luciano
The Toronto Raptors once again had one of the strongest G League teams in the NBA last season, with names like Dalano Banton and Reggie Perry contributing to that success. The Raptors want to make sure they have as many quality backups as possible, carving out a path for Perry to come back.
Perry, who was drafted in the second round by the Brooklyn Nets and had one worthwhile season as a backup, was one of the most productive players for Raptors 905 last season. He even managed to earn a few cups of coffee in the NBA before returning to the minor leagues.
Perry remains unsigned at the moment, which is puzzling considering what a solid season he had last year on multiple fronts. However, the latest buzz suggests that the Raptors are trying to move some pieces around in order to free up a spot for him to return.
The Raptors are reportedly looking to sign Perry to an Exhibit 10 contract as soon as they can “carve out” a roster spot for him. It remains to be seen who will bite the dust to bring Perry back into the fold, but it appears as though Toronto is intrigued by the toolbox of skills he brings to the table.
Will the Toronto Raptors re-sign Reggie Perry?
Perry averaged 19.7 points and 10.1 rebounds per game while making 48% of his shots with Raptors 905. After becoming a double-double machine at Mississippi State, Perry showed that his quality rebounding and mid-range pick-and-pop game would translate to the NBA.
Aided by COVID-19, Perry signed a few pro contracts with the Portland Trail Blazers and Indiana Pacers. The former squad gave him a longer leash, and he responded by putting up 10.0 points and 5.1 rebounds per game in just under 20 minutes per game. He’s worthy of making an opening night roster in a very limited role.
Like last year, Perry would not play a role on Toronto’s roster if he’s coming into camp on an Exhibit 10 deal. However, considering that he and Michigan State rookie Gabe Brown would both be on a similar contract, there could be a nice mini-duel between them to get in Nick Nurse’s good graces.
Considering all of the talents the Raptors have found from the most unlikely of places over the years, it would be unwise to discount Perry’s chances of making a pro impact. He may have benefitted from absences during his Portland tenure, but he also showed a pro-ready skillset.