The Raptors are engaged in a rather peculiar situation regarding the future of Bruno Fernando.
Toronto signed him to a non-guaranteed deal this past offseason, primarily to serve as a reserve big man should the team require additional support in that area.
Well, it goes without saying that the Raptors have faced a myriad of injuries this season; nonetheless, the team's willingness to incorporate Fernando into their rotation has been virtually non-existent.
During the season, there were only brief moments when Fernando had the opportunity to showcase his talents, after which he would inexplicably disappear from the lineup at the direction of the coaching staff for extended stretches.
What's the Raptors' deal with Bruno Fernando?
While there's no significant outcry for an increase in Fernando's playing time, it's clear that there were nights when he could have suited up, even if only during garbage time.
For these reasons, Fernando was positioned at the top of our recent list of Raptors least likely to remain with the team in 2025, as it seems they are merely counting down the days until they take a one-way flight out of Toronto.
An important date that will ultimately determine Fernando's one-way flight rests on the team's decision tomorrow, January 7. His deal becomes officially guaranteed for just over $2 million, but while January 10 is the technical deadline for 23 NBA contracts to become fully guaranteed, January 7 serves as the functional cutoff.
When January 7 passes, Fernando's deal is guaranteed on the books
Maybe the Raptors just missed this date, kind of like they've overlooked Fernando as a player. I mean, it’s probably not the case, but it’s hard not to feel a bit puzzled by the lack of chatter about what they plan to do with him next.
Even so, it’s not as though Fernando’s name hasn’t surfaced in the rumor mill; he has attracted interest as a low-cost, quality depth piece for contenders. While he may not have dazzled the crowds in Toronto, that doesn’t mean his NBA career is over just yet.
In the right situation, there exists a scenario where Fernando can contribute serviceable minutes, and he demonstrated that potential in flashes with the Raptors.
But the Raptors really need to make up their minds quickly and cut Fernando loose. There’s no point in having him just collecting dust on the sidelines. They could either shed the financial burden or find a trade suitor pronto.