Toronto Raptors Make Two-Way Signing Amid Final Roster Cuts of Preseason

The Toronto Raptors fell 129-125 to the Detroit Pistons Friday night in the final game of the preseason. Head coach Darko Rajakovic sat every member of the rotation outside of rookie first-round pick Allen Graves, so a four-point loss is encouraging, considering Detroit played their typical lineup. Two-way guard Malachi Smith led all scorers with 24 in the contest on 44% shooting with four threes made. 

Through the first four preseason games, it appears the Raptors were able to see what they needed to as they head into the regular season. Newly acquired seven-time All-Star Kawhi Leonard was a highlight machine in his debut; Scottie Barnes looks to be much improved offensively; Jakob Poeltl and Immanuel Quickley appear to be in good health; and the young pieces continue to grow in their own ways. 

On the second night of a back-to-back, the players fighting for the final roster spots were able to do as much damage as they could. With only 15 standard contracts and two two-way contracts available, the training camp players were fighting for just one remaining standard and two-way deal. Nimari Burnett had 17 points, five rebounds, two steals, and two blocks in 24 minutes; Tyson Degenhart had 14 points, four rebounds, and four assists on 50% shooting in 30 minutes off the bench; and Tyreke Key added 13 points with four threes made in 30 minutes off the bench. 

Ultimately, general manager Bobby Webster made his decision on who would get the final two-way spot, and it actually is going to a guy who hasn’t played since the Summer League. Former University of Oregon center Nate Bittle earned the honor after a stellar showing this offseason. As a result, Burnett, Key, Degenhart, Jamarion Sharp, and Jalen Celestine were all waived, but have the opportunity to join Toronto’s G-League affiliate, the Raptors 905. 

At 7 feet and 250 pounds, the Central Point, Oregon native may prove to be a beneficial frontcourt depth piece that brings X-factor material. While he isn’t a spectacular rebounder for his size, he is an elite shot blocker (averaged 1.8 blocks per game with the Ducks last season) and can spread the floor with his outside shooting ability. He shot just 31.9% from deep in his fifth year in the NCAA, but the volume of 4.5 threes attempted per game is especially favorable because it shows he can and will shoot in several different situations. His stroke from deep was a bright spot of the Raptors Summer League squad, and it appears that may have been intriguing enough for Webster to sign him.