5 Raptors who are playing for their future in Toronto
By Tyler Watts
2. Gary Trent Jr.
Many thought Trent Jr. would be traded before the deadline, especially after the Raptors moved on from OG Anunoby and Pascal Siakam. The 25-year-old is in the final year of his contract and making $18.5 million. There has been no extension, and he will become an unrestricted free agent this summer.
Trent’s numbers are down this season. His 11.5 points, 2.2 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.0 steal, and 26.3 minutes per game are his lowest since arriving in Toronto in 2021. The 6’5 wing is shooting a career-best 41.8 percent from 3-point range, but his 41.6 percent on his field goals and 66.7 percent from the free throw line have been disappointing.
The Raptors added Bruce Brown, R.J. Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, and Ochai Agbaji in trades this season. They have a ton of wing depth, which makes it difficult to find playing time and shots for everyone. Trent Jr. has felt that squeeze, and it could be time for the two parties to split.
Gary Trent Jr. needs to increase his scoring and efficiency if he wants to stick with the Toronto Raptors after this season. The franchise has cap space and a desire to get back into contention. They won’t be afraid to spend, but the 6’5 must prove he fits with their new core down the stretch.