Toronto Raptors: 4 top free agent targets when free agency begins

TORONTO, ON - DECEMBER 31: Tristan Thompson #13 of the Cleveland Cavaliers dribbles the ball as Serge Ibaka #9 of the Toronto Raptors defends during the second half of an NBA game at Scotiabank Arena on December 31, 2019 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images) /

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4. Aron Baynes

Prior to this season, Aron Baynes isn’t a name that would impress most NBA fans. The center has had an unexpected breakout year with the Phoenix Suns, however, reviving his career and setting himself up for a bigger payday than most 33-year old centers can expect.

Prior to the 2017-18 season, Baynes had taken less than 10 three-pointers in his entire career. But he has slowly reinvented himself over the past three years, to the point he’s now a high-volume gunner on the perimeter. This season alone, he’s attempted 168 three-pointers, shooting a career-high 35.1 percent from that distance.

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Opportunity created by Deandre Ayton‘s PED suspension at the beginning of the season has been huge for Baynes beyond his 3-point shooting. He’s averaging 11.5 points and 5.6 rebounds per game, both career highs. He’s also never played in more minutes per game, averaging 22.3 per contest.

As a solid screener and newly prolific 3-point shooter, Baynes fits the right mold to replace Gasol, an unrestricted free agent in the midst of the worst season of his career. He’ll likely command more than the $5.45 million he earned this season, but he could likely be had on a decent two-year deal that will allow the Raptors to keep their competitive window open.

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