NBA Free Agency: One move every team needs to make
By Tom West
Toronto Raptors: Sign Trevor Booker
The Raptors still have their issue at power forward, Bismack Biyombo could leave for a $17-plus million contract elsewhere thanks to impressive performances in the playoffs, and rumors have emerged that they’ve even decided to call the 76ers about a possible trade for Nerlens Noel involving Terrence Ross and other filler pieces.
Toronto needs some big man help, but there simply aren’t many affordable power forward options on the market. Pau Gasol’s offensive game would help and Ryan Anderson’s spacing may be nice off the bench, although they’ll both command a high price on the market that could put them out of reach.
This is where Trevor Booker, a guy who can add energy and depth at a more reasonable price, makes sense if the Raptors want to try and keep as many of their core pieces as possible.
Booker made his 20 minutes per game count for the Jazz in 2015-16. Averaging 10.2 points and 10 rebounds per 36 minutes, he was a legitimate energizer that could help a number of top NBA teams with his rebounding, solid defensive versatility, and that energy to do whatever he can in a limited role. His range offensively is inferior to that of Patrick Patterson and Luis Scola, although his defense would at least be a welcome upgrade over the latter.
Frankly, Booker isn’t an overly attractive signing for the Raptors. There’s no way to avoid that or overhype what he offers in a backup role. That being said, at the right price with limited options (especially affordable ones), he’s worth looking into.
Next: Cleveland Cavaliers