Does Dalano Banton have a future with Raptors after latest rotation moves?

The Toronto Raptors came into the 2022-23 season expecting big things out of second-round selection Dalano Banton. The lanky point guard and Rexdale native showed some true defensive promise during his rookie season, and the Raptors were hoping that his offensive game would follow suit.

Outside of one improbable night against the Pistons, Banton hasn’t been able to assert himself in the team’s rotation. While he continues to dominate in the G League, he’s shot just 42% from the field and 30% from 3-point range in his limited minutes with the big league club.

The latest rotation tweaks Nick Nurse has made will likely make things tougher on Banton. Not only has Malachi Flynn earned a semi-permanent role in the backcourt, but Nurse has been more willing to use Jeff Dowtin in the lineup despite the fact he’s on a two-way contract.

With some big changes likely coming to the roster as extensions happen and trades remake the depth behind their star players, it’s fair to start wondering if the Raptors are going to have a spot for Banton on the team’s roster in the immediate future.

Will the Toronto Raptors hold on to Dalano Banton?

While Nurse’s desire to get more shooting in the lineup is a massive reason as to why Flynn has been in over Banton, it’s fair to assume he hasn’t developed like the team hoped. Christian Koloko is also an offensively deficient second-round pick, and he’s been a semi-regular starter and late-game closer.

Banton is trending towards being the NBA equivalent of a “Quad-A” player. He’s clearly too good for the G League on both ends, but he lacks the nuance and craftiness in his game to consistently score in the NBA. There will come a time when Toronto isn’t able to continue being this patient with him.

No one is doubting the fact that Banton can be a defensive pest when he’s on the floor. However, he still appears to be more of a project than a tangible pro player at this point. The waive of Justin Champagnie signals that the team’s commitment to development only lasts so long.

Dalano Banton is a ball of energy who will likely have a future in the league in some capacity, but it would be completely understandable if this front office decided to part ways with a 23-year-old guard that struggles to shoot in favor of a veteran that can provide a more instantaneous impact.