Weeks ago, the door had already been shut, but on Friday night, the Toronto Raptors officially turned the deadbolt, marking their elimination from postseason contention. An 11-game losing streak not only confirmed their fate but also shifted the team’s atmosphere from slightly hopeful to utterly dismal. Enter Eeyore.
However, there’s reason to maintain optimism for the future, as the Raptors’ core is young and mostly set to return next season. Scottie Barnes will become extension eligible this summer, Immanuel Quickley, a restricted free agent, is expected to be re-signed, and RJ Barrett, Ochai Agbaji, Gradey Dick, and Jakob Poeltl are all under contract for multiple seasons beyond this one.
Nevertheless, not everyone will be returning. Let’s examine three players from the current team who are likely to depart this offseason.
1. Jontay Porter
Just two weeks ago, the Raptors were likely enthusiastic about Jontay Porter’s potential and considering ways to secure a roster spot for him this summer. He had shown glimpses of promising two-way play and appeared to be the ideal candidate for retaining as a third center and nurturing into a more significant role.
However, Porter now appears poised for an NBA ban following the league’s investigation. While the severity of the consequences remains uncertain, it’s unlikely the Raptors will retain him, especially if he faces a lengthy suspension. Jontay Porter is unlikely to remain with the Raptors or any NBA team next season.
