Raptors Interested in Extending Gary Trent Jr. Amid Jontay Porter Departure
Porter Leaves Raptors After One Season
After spending one season with the Toronto Raptors, Jontay Porter has officially departed the team. The 23-year-old center was acquired by the Raptors in a trade with the Memphis Grizzlies in June 2022 but saw limited playing time during his tenure.
Trent Jr. Extension Talks Heat Up
With Porter's departure, the Raptors are now focused on re-signing Gary Trent Jr., who is set to become a free agent in 2024. Last June, reports emerged suggesting that Trent Jr. and the Raptors were close to agreeing on a multiyear extension.
Trent Jr. has been a key contributor for the Raptors since arriving in a trade with the Portland Trail Blazers in 2021. The 24-year-old guard is averaging 18.9 points per game this season and has established himself as a solid perimeter defender.
Despite Trent Jr.'s importance to the team, the Raptors are reportedly hesitant to offer him a max contract. The Athletic recently reported that the Raptors are willing to offer Trent Jr. a deal worth around $28 million annually, which would be less than the $36 million he could earn on the open market.
The Raptors' front office is likely taking into account the team's salary cap situation and the impending free agency of Fred VanVleet and O.G. Anunoby in the summer of 2024. By offering Trent Jr. a reasonable extension, the Raptors can maintain their financial flexibility while keeping a key piece of their core.
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