The door had been locked for weeks, but the deadbolt was finally flung on Friday night: the Toronto Raptors were eliminated from postseason contention. An 11-game losing skid has not only sealed their destiny, but has also changed the mood around the club from somewhat optimistic to completely moribund. Enter Eeyore.
The Raptors’ core is young and will return for the most part next season, which gives cause to be hopeful about the future. Scottie Barnes will be available for an extension this summer, Immanuel Quickley is a restricted free agent who will almost probably be re-signed, and RJ Barrett, Ochai Agbaji, Gradey Dick, and Jakob Poeltl are all under contract for more than one season.
Not everyone will be returning, however. Let’s take a look at three current players that are likely to go this summer.
Number 3: Jontay Porter
As recently as two weeks ago, the Raptors were undoubtedly thrilled about Jontay Porter’s future and planning to open a roster space for him this summer. He’s showed great glimpses of two-way play and appears to be the ideal player to bring back as a third center and develop into something more.
Instead, Porter appears to be on track for a lifetime suspension from the NBA once the inquiry is completed. It’s conceivable he escapes something too terrible, but only just, and even in that case, the Raptors won’t keep him around while he serves a lengthy sentence. Jontay Porter will most likely not play for the Raptors or any other NBA club next season.
