Earlier this week, the Toronto Raptors agreed to a four-year, $42 million extension with third-year forward Norman Powell.

The 24-year-old opened up about his new contract voicing much appreciation about the Raptors' long-term commitment to him, according to Josh Lewenberg of TSN 1050 Radio.

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Through his first two seasons in the league, he's averaging 7.3 points on 44.1 percent with 2.2 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game. He was a strong contributor in the playoffs averaging 11.7 points on 42.7 percent shooting from the field and 44 percent from beyond the arc. This includes scoring in double figures six times including a 25-point outing against the Milwaukee Bucks.

The decision to lock up Powell under a long-term deal clearly signals that the Raptors view him a major piece to the puzzle. He has the potential to further develop into a bigger offensive contributor, especially with the departure of DeMare Carroll via a trade to the Brooklyn Nets.

Toronto now has their core group of All-Stars Kyle Lowry and DeMarr DeRozan along with Serge Ibaka are all locked up under long-term deals and keep them in playoff contention over the next several years. The Raptors have reached the postseason over the last four seasons, including three Atlantic division titles and first trip to the Eastern Conference Finals in franchise history.