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Toronto Raptors: How rookie option decisions will play out

By Paul Taylor

TORONTO, ON - OCTOBER 5: Pascal Siakam #43 of the Toronto Raptors dribbles the ball during the second half of an NBA preseason game against of Melbourne United at Scotiabank Arena on October 5, 2018 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)
TORONTO, ON - OCTOBER 5: Pascal Siakam #43 of the Toronto Raptors dribbles the ball during the second half of an NBA preseason game against of Melbourne United at Scotiabank Arena on October 5, 2018 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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The Toronto Raptors have several decisions to make regarding rookie options by Oct. 31; we look at the players in question and predict what direction the team will take with each one.

Oct. 31 will be an important date for the Toronto Raptors, and not just because it signals the end of the first month of the regular season. This date also represents the deadline for making decision on rookie options.

As noted by Luke Adams of Hoops Rumors, a number of teams have already announced their rookie option scale decisions for the 2019-20 season. However, the Raptors are among those yet to confirm what they will do.

In all, the Raptors have three players to make decision on. These include: OG Anunoby, Pascal Siakam and Malachi Richardson.

Anunoby’s team option for next season — his third in the NBA — is for $2,281,800. He also has a team option of $3,872,215 for the 2020-21 season, as well as a qualifying offer of $5,634,072 for the following campaign.

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Of the three players, the 21-year-old is arguably the easiest decision for the Raptors to make. He had an excellent season during his rookie campaign, which included 62 starts in 74 appearances.

Interestingly, even though Anunoby will likely not start as much during this season, he is averaging more minutes compared to his first year, albeit through just five appearances. Regardless, he has upped his production and will be a key component off the bench.

Turning to Siakam, his team option for next season — his fourth in the NBA — is for $2,351,839. He also has a qualifying offer of $3,487,777 for the 2020-21 campaign.

In fairness to the 2016 first round draft pick, he is almost as certain, when it comes to having his option picked up for next season. He has seen his consistency and productivity improve every year he has been in the NBA, ironically helped this season by Anunoby’s recent absence due to personal reasons.

Finally, we focus on Richardson, who is the least secure of the three players mentioned. His team option for next season — also his fourth in the league — is $2,581,597, along with a qualifying offer of $3,738,153 for the 2020-21 campaign.

In theory — at least from a financial standpoint — the Raptors would have no issue picking up the option, due to its relatively minor amount. However, every dollar counts in respect of next season’s salary cap, especially if the team can persuade Kawhi Leonard to sign what would be undoubtedly a lucrative contract extension.

Another factor which could well go against Richardson is his lack of production this season, which is impacted by his standing on the roster. This continues the narrative which has been prevalent throughout his NBA career to date.

This doesn’t mean the 22-year-old is without talent; he has a good shot — especially from downtown — and decent defensive skills. However, he needs to find a way to make the most of limited playing time and be more effective.

When push comes to shove, we predict the Raptors will decline to pick up Richardson’s option for next season. Regardless, we’ll know for sure at some point during Wednesday.

Next. 3 Raptors players with everything to prove in 2018-19. dark

What’s your take on the Toronto Raptors’ rookie option decisions? Are you in agreement with our predictions, or do you have a different opinion regarding any of the three players involved? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

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