No. 5: Bismack Biyombo
The Charlotte Hornets took a chance on raw size and athleticism when they drafted center Bismack Biyombo seventh overall in the 2011 NBA Draft. Although he had his moments as a defender and shot blocker during his rookie contract, the Hornets let him walk in free agency after his fourth season. He signed a make-good deal with the Toronto Raptors.
On the surface it doesn't look like Biyombo had a breakout season for the Raptors, but he played in all 82 games, improved as a rebounder and played solid defense. His moment in the spotlight came in the playoffs, when he pulled down as many as 26 rebounds in a single game. That playoff run earned him a ludicrously large contract in free agency the next summer from the Orlando Magic.
It has been eight seasons since Biyombo left the Raptors, and he has become a journeyman center bouncing around the league wherever he is needed. He is currently on the back end of the Oklahoma City Thunder's roster providing emergency center depth.
If the Raptors see an avenue to moving Jakob Poeltl this season and add a young big in the draft, Bismack Biyombo would be a solid, low-cost and familiar player to sign as the veteran to hold down the fort while the Raptors develop their long-term starter. Still just 31 years old, Biyombo still offers a lot in a small role.