3 Canadians the Toronto Raptors could sign in free agency

1. Dillon Brooks

Probably the best Canadian on the free agency market this summer is Dillon Brooks. Subject to a lot of social media criticism for his on-court behavior, Brooks is still a reliable producer. In his final season with Memphis, Brooks averaged 14.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game while shooting 33% from outside the arc.

On offense, Brooks had a down-scoring season last year. His only improvement was better outside shooting on higher volume. Placed into the Raptors’ offense, Brooks adds a gunner to share in the offensive load and a respectable passer who can create opportunities. His offensive resume may not impress in all aspects, but Brooks makes up for it at the other end.

Can the Toronto Raptors land Dillon Brooks?

Named to his first All-Defense team in 2022-23, Brooks is an excellent defender. Last season, Basketball Index placed him in the 100th percentile for matchup difficulty, 95th percentile for defensive versatility, and 91st percentile for on-ball defense. For the Raptors, Brooks could be a ball-stopper defending the opposing team’s top options and be lethal in their switchable system.

Finishing the final year of his three-year, $35 million contract, the Grizzlies made it clear that Brooks would not be re-signed. Reportedly, Brooks is seeking a multi-year contract worth up to $25 million per season, a number not reflective of his play last season. If his asking price stays that high, then the Raptors making an offer is unlikely, but if it ever comes back to Earth, Toronto should pick up the phone.