4 interesting MLE targets the Raptors should pursue signing

4 interesting MLE targets Raptors should pursue signing

MIAMI, FLORIDA - APRIL 22: Gabe Vincent #2 of the Miami Heat dribbles the ball against the Milwaukee Bucks during the first quarter in Game Three of the Eastern Conference First Round Playoffs at Kaseya Center on April 22, 2023 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images) /

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LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MAY 08: Lonnie Walker IV #4 of the Los Angeles Lakers (Photo by Allen Berezovsky/Getty Images) /

2. Lonnie Walker, SG, Los Angeles Lakers

When Walker gets on his knees to pray every night, he needs to thank the basketball gods for that miraculous Game 4 in the Lakers’ upset victory over the Golden State Warriors. His performance in that game could help him earn a multi-year contract with a contending team.

Walker averaged 11.7 points per game this season while making 36% of his 3-pointers, though the increase in efficiency was due to superstars like LeBron James attracting so much defensive attention all the time. He won’t get that in Toronto, but that shouldn’t necessarily deter the Raptors.

Lonnie Walker could be a stud for the Toronto Raptors.

Walker showed an ability to produce for a team that went deep into the postseason, expanded his array of shot-making tools, and provided adequate to above-average defensive effort in both the regular season and playoffs. That sounds like a Raptor to me.

Walker will not come cheap, as he will use his playoff run to beef up his value. Despite that, the Raptors need to use every cent of MLE money at their disposal to chase him and convince him to come up north.