Toronto Raptors Re-Sign Gary Trent Jr.

 

The Toronto Raptors traded long-time fan favorite Norm Powell at the trade deadline to acquire 22-year-old Gary Trent Jr.  It was clear that they were intent on bringing back the restricted free agent, and they've done just that, signing Trent to a 3-year deal worth $54 million dollars. 

As expected, the Toronto #Raptors have re-signed Gary Trent Jr. to a three-year deal. #NBA

"Gary Trent Jr., has agreed to a three-year, $54M deal to return to the Toronto Raptors."

(via @wojespn) pic.twitter.com/KiNn2RggEz

— NBA Analysis Network (@HoopAnalysisNet) August 2, 2021

Trent immediately proved his worth upon his arrival in Toronto, pouring in a new career-high 31 points in just his 4th game with the team. His next game was even better, as he posted a plus-54, the second-best mark in the NBA in 20 years. 

Those might have been tough acts to follow, but Trent pulled it off, hitting a buzzer-beating game-winning 3-pointer and then posting a new(er) career-high of 44 points in his next two games. Quite a 4-game run, pretty much cementing his future with the Raptors. 

Whether Trent will start or come off the bench is still up for discussion, as the Raptors could choose to start their No. 4 choice in the NBA Draft, Scottie Barnes, in the backcourt along with Fred VanVleet, while Pascal Siakam and OG Anunoby man the forward spots along with an as-yet-unknown center. 

A lot more moves undoubtedly still to come, as the Raptors bring in the return from the Miami Heat from the Kyle Lowry sign-and-trade as well. 

Photo Credit:  Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports