NBA rumors: Raptors have “exploratory interest” in former Nets PG

The Toronto Raptors appear to be keeping their options open as they try to fill their 15th and final roster spot, as they have enough cap space to bring in a genuinely impactful player. Could a former rival in 6-4 point guard Edmond Sumner fit the bill?

Sumner was let go by the Brooklyn Nets despite the fact he emerged as a solid backup and occasional starter on last season’s team. After putting together a quality season in the role he was given, it looks unlikely that he will be on the open market for much longer.

With one open roster spot and rumors of them trying to pull Ayo Dosunmu further away from the Chicago Bulls, the Raptors appear to be in the market for a backup point guard. If they want Sumner that badly, however, they need to fight off multiple franchises.

According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, the Raptors are one of five teams that have a degree of interest in Sumner. The Hornets, Bucks, Heat, and Suns have also put some feelers out for Sumner, meaning that Toronto needs to compete with some contenders for the former Xavier star’s signature.

NBA rumors: Toronto Raptors interested in Edmond Sumner.

Charlotte might be able to offer Sumner the most playing time, meaning they should be considered one of the favorites. Joining Miami, Milwaukee, or Phoenix could give Sumner the chance to chase a championship. Toronto is in a tough spot, as they can’t compete for a title or promise a rotation role.

Such an addition will only come if Masai Ujiri identifies Sumner as a player that he needs to complete his rotation and makes the most convincing offer out there. With Sumner fresh off averaging 7.1 points and 1.3 assists per game, it’s easy to see why the Raptors might have an interest in him.

The Raptors need to decide what the status of Jeff Dowtin is before they go after Sumner. If they sign him to a proper NBA contract, the only way to fit him in on the roster is to trade away one of their more established players to open up a spot.

Sumner’s long arms, finishing skill, and solid jump shot when called upon are all traits that Toronto would like to see out of their backup point guard. Sumner makes sense, but he won’t come to Canada for free amid all of the competition surrounding him.