Toronto Raptors extend qualifying offers to Patrick Patterson, Greivis Vasquez

By Bryan Rose | Jun 28, 2014

Apr 22, 2014; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors guard Greivis Vasquez (21) and forward Patrick Patterson (54) celebrate a late basket against the Brooklyn Nets in game two during the first round of the 2014 NBA Playoffs at Air Canada Centre. Toronto defeated Brooklyn 100-95. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports /

The Toronto Raptors hoped that when they acquired both Patrick Patterson and Greivis Vasquez from the Sacramento Kings this past season, both would be more than one-year rentals. The team took the first step to making sure that won’t be the case on Saturday as the Raptors extended a qualifying offer to both players.

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Both moves were expected and are nothing more than a mere formality at this point as now both Patterson and Vasquez are restricted free agents, giving the Toronto Raptors the opportunity to match any contract they receive in free agency.

Vasquez, who has previously stated his desire to return to the Toronto Raptors had expressed a sentiment to become a starter, something that seems increasingly likely as rumors swirl about the potential departure of fellow point guard Kyle Lowry.

As for Patrick Patterson, the former Kentucky Wildcat talent seemed to have a bit of a career resurgence with the Toronto Raptors though at times struggled with his shot. It’s questionable if he’ll receive much of an offer in free agency given the Raptors are likely to retain him on a small deal while Vasquez is more of a wild card given constant NBA needs for the point guard position.

It’s not known if the Raptors are looking to explore contract extensions with either player, though if no deal is struck (or matched) Vasquez will be due $3 million dollars for the upcoming season while Patterson will chime in at $4 million.

Both will become unrestricted free agents at the end of the upcoming season if no extension is signed.