3 Raptors who have earned a spot on the 2023-24 roster

1. SG Gary Trent Jr.

It seems like both Trent and Fred VanVleet are going to hit free agency in the offseason, and the Raptors will likely not be able to keep both of them due to their very precarious contract situations. The once-popular trade target might seem like someone destined to leave, but he made a very strong case for retention this season.

Excelling as both a starter and Sixth Man, Trent’s electric ball-handling and shooting give the Raptors two traits that they are in dire need of. Having length and physicality is great, but you won’t go anywhere in the league without quality half-court offense and 3-point shooting.

The Toronto Raptors need Gary Trent Jr.

The VanVleet or Trent debate is not going to go away until free agency starts. While VanVleet is the more experienced player and the more natural point guard, Trent is the better perimeter shooter. With both fo them excellent defensive playmakers, this could come down to the wire.

Scottie Barnes’ 12-assist night against the Heat could help show that he is advanced enough as a passer to take over for VanVleet in the near future. If that is the case, he’ll need a quality catch-and-shoot threat like Trent to be on the receiving end of his passes.