Toronto Raptors: How will Greg Monroe fit in next year?
Last season
Monroe appeared in the rotation for three NBA teams last season. He appeared in five games with the Bucks, but youth and upside outweighed his ability in the frontcourt. After averaging just 6.8 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.0 assists in 15.8 minutes per contest, he was traded to the Suns for Eric Bledsoe.
Monroe’s production went up in Phoenix, noticeably so. He put up 11.3 points, 8.0 rebounds and 2.5 assists per contest in 20 appearances and 14 starts. Despite his contributions, things didn’t change for Phoenix in the win column as they still went 3-17 when Monroe’s appeared in the rotation. Both sides agreed to buy out his contract, making him a free agent on Feb. 1.
Monroe was picked up by the Boston Celtics on Feb. 8 for the remainder of the 2017-18 season. With Boston, Monroe was able to show what could also do for a winning club. He produced 10.2 points, 6.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.1 steals per contest through 20 appearances. Despite not starting any games, he managed to post a triple-double on April 6 against the Chicago Bulls. He put up 19 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists in a 111-104 victory for Boston.
In a limited sample size, Monroe was able to show he has the court awareness to do more than just score the basketball. His addition should pay dividends for the Raptors this upcoming season.