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

1. Tristan Thompson

Tristan Thompson going to the Raptors has been fated for some time now. And while his fit as a modern NBA big man is up in the air – Thompson has made nine three-pointers in his career – his energy would be a big boost to the team.

Even if the Raptors do bring back Ibaka, the only true center signed for next season right now is rookie Dewan Hernandez. That’s the same Dewan Hernandez who has struggled to escape the G League after being the team’s only draft pick in 2019.

The drop-off to Hernandez at center next season would be massive. There would be no drop-off with Thompson around. He’s averaging 12.0 points and 10.1 rebounds per game this season, in line to average a double-double for the second consecutive year. His 25 double-doubles this season are his most since 2013-14.

Thompson has spent his entire career with the Cleveland Cavaliers. The reason he’s always brought up in regards to the Raptors, however, is because he’s from Toronto – Brampton, to be specific. Playing for the Raptors would be a homecoming for the big man.

Back to the 3-pointers for a minute. Gasol wasn’t a 3-point shooter until he needed to be, then he became one of the best at his position. Thompson has made nine 3-pointers in his career, but all of them have come this year on 23 attempts. That means Thompson is somehow shooting 39.1 percent from 3-point range – perhaps his perimeter shooting reinvention is already underway.

Thompson will likely be expecting a big contract this summer, as he made over $18 million this season and still won’t be 30 years old when the 2020-21 season begins. If he’s interested in a hometown discount, the Raptors should consider it.