Toronto Raptors: “Pass or Pursue” on 5 big-name free agents
4. Goran Dragic
If you could point to one non-Raptor that would fit the culture and scheme Masai Ujiri has built in Toronto, it might just be Goran Dragić.
Tough and versatile, the 12-year veteran was integral in the Miami Heat’s return to the NBA Finals last season. Now, although fancying a return to Miami, he is set to test the free agent market.
There’s no doubt Dragić’s gut and guile would fit in beautifully with the Raptors’ blue-collar locker room. The question lies with whether Fred VanVleet resigns with Toronto, or leaves for perceived greener pastures.
If VanVleet stays, the Raptors don’t have much room for another point guard/undersized shooting guard. However, if VanVleet leaves, Dragić could be a perfect signing to keep up with the Joneses in the Eastern Conference.
Dragić is 34 and coming off a nasty plantar fascia injury suffered during the finals. From a business perspective, both of these facts can work in the Raptors’ favour, as if Dragić stayed healthy throughout the playoffs, he would be in much higher demand. The Slovenian started 16 of 17 games in the playoffs, averaging 32.5 minutes a game and 19.1 points. This is in sharp contrast to his regular season numbers, where he started three out of 59 games and averaged just under 29 minutes and 16.2 points.
If VanVleet is resigned, then the Raptors’ backcourt is set. If he leaves, Goran Dragić is the perfect replacement.