The Toronto Raptors don't often make any major splashes in the free agent department. Oftentimes, the team is content with snagging complementary pieces off the market instead of signing any major stars in free agency. That trend continued in the 2022 offseason; however, their new acquisition has a more stacked resume than most of their signings.
Out of seemingly nowhere, the Raptors snagged Warriors forward Otto Porter Jr. on a two-year deal. It was a surprise for most people: many expected OPJ to stay with Golden State after winning the championship there. From the looks of it, though, Toronto offered a better contract than the veteran minimum.
With that in mind, let's take a look at how this deal grades out for the Toronto Raptors.
Grading Otto Porter Jr's 2-year deal with Raptors in 2022 NBA free agency
The Raptors' roster-building formula has been an open secret amongst NBA fans now. Their goal is to usher in a new era of positionless basketball by fielding a roster full of forwards. The idea is that these forwards can all defend at a high level, allowing for seamless switching without sacrificing much offense on the other end.
Otto Porter Jr. is a perfect fit for the Raptors in that department, for a couple of reasons. First, he adds some much-needed three-point shooting to a bench unit that lacked spacing last season. Last season for the Warriors, Porter Jr. shot 37% on solid volume off-the-bench. His consistent stroke from deep (39.8 career percentage from three) will help open up the floor for Pascal Siakam and Scottie Barnes when they run the bench units.
Porter Jr. also fits the switchable forward mold that the Raptors absolutely love to trot. Granted, he can't guard quick guards effectively at this point due to his injuries. However, he won't likely be forced to face any speedsters off the bench. His biggest strength on defense is against the larger wings, where he can use his size and length to disrupt their rhythm.
Porter Jr's signing also ensures that the Raptors don't completely destroy their frontcourt rotation if a blockbuster trade does happen. Any deal for a certain disgruntled star in Brooklyn will likely include OG Anunoby and Barnes. OPJ's signing means that Toronto can still feel comfortable that their frontcourt rotation will remain slightly intact.
There are clear weaknesses to Otto Porter Jr's game. His availability is suspect (he hasn't played more than 77 games since the 2017-18 season). And for as much praise as we've given him so far, he's not exactly a needle-mover for the Raptors.
Still, Porter Jr is a perfectly solid signing for the Raptors. It's not a home run signing, but it gets the job done and fills certain needs for the team in the upcoming season.
Grade: B+
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