The Toronto Raptors are now shifting their focus to NBA Free Agency following the departure of team president Masai Ujiri. Despite facing constraints with their salary cap, the Raptors have been linked to former No. 1 overall draft pick Ben Simmons, as reported by Sportsnet’s Michael Grange. Simmons is set to become an unrestricted free agent after concluding the 2024-25 season with the Los Angeles Clippers.
As the Raptors look to fill three remaining roster spots, potential candidates include Jamison Battle, Alijah Martin, and another player on a minimum contract. However, acquiring Simmons presents a challenge in terms of team needs, particularly given that the Raptors are currently in search of a backup center. Simmons has primarily played point guard throughout his career, and his addition may not address the team’s immediate requirements.
Last season with the Clippers, Simmons averaged just 2.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists over 18 games, shooting 43.4 percent from the floor and not attempting a three-pointer. His performance was notably limited during the playoff series against the Denver Nuggets, where he averaged only 1.4 rebounds in slightly more than 8 minutes per game across five contests.
With the recent signing of Garrett Temple to a one-year, $3.6 million deal, the Raptors now have 12 players on guaranteed contracts and have filled their three two-way player slots. As a result, they are close to reaching the tax threshold, and barring any trades, the upcoming free agency period is likely to be quiet for the team.
The Raptors’ commitment to Garrett Temple could provide them with the continuity needed as they navigate this phase of roster construction, and the overall strategy in free agency will be key to enhancing the team’s competitiveness moving forward.