Raptors: 3 two-way free agents who could replace Gary Trent Jr

Since being acquired by the Toronto Raptors, Gary Trent Jr. has been nothing short of a deadly offensive threat. Scoring 17.4 points per game last season, Trent was an outside threat, shooting 37% from three-point range. He paired this offense with solid defense adding 1.6 steals per game to the box score.

His two-way play was some of the best the Raptors have had since the championship season in 2019, and he holds much value to the front office. The only problem is that his contract now stands with a player option for the 2023-24 season, and his return is not guaranteed.

His option next season stands at $18 million, which may not be large enough for the 3-and-D wing. Contracts for other second/third option guards like Tyler Herro and Jordan Poole have pushed into the $30 million range. With Trent having much more to offer on the other end of the floor, it may not be ridiculous for him to opt out for a larger contract.

If he chooses to opt out, the Raptors will be left with a large hole at the 2-guard position, in need of a shooter, defender, and shot creator. Here are three guards who could replace Gary Trent as both a shooter and defender.

3 two-way free agents who could replace Raptors’ Gary Trent Jr

3. Josh Richardson

Last season with both the San Antonio Spurs and the New Orleans Pelicans, Richardson was a gritty guard who got it done when called upon. Averaging 10.1 points, 2.7 assists, and 1.1 steals per game while shooting 37% on over 4 threes per contest, Richardson can be a great starting guard.

Previously a starter in Miami, Philadelphia, and Dallas, Richardson has been sought after for his consistent shooting. In eight NBA seasons, Richardson has been an above-average 3-point shooter five times. Shooting from deep is an important asset, and Richardson has continued to succeed at high volume.

Josh Richardson could help out the Toronto Raptors on both ends.

On the defensive end of the floor, Richardson is a pest. In San Antonio, he was seen as a weaker defender, but being surrounded by a generationally bad defense will tend to devalue a player. On a Raptors defense that played like one of the best in the NBA late, Richardson would be able to take risks and guard tough matchups, knowing he has a defense to back him up.

Outside of tough defense and replicating Trent’s shooting, Richardson provides great contract value. Where Trent holds an option of $18 million, Richardson just finished a one-year deal for $12 million, and it is highly likely the Raptors could sign him and save several million from the Trent deal.