The Toronto Raptors recently made headlines with the signing of Canadian center Kelly Olynyk to a multi-year contract extension. Originally born in Toronto, Olynyk was acquired by the Raptors from the Utah Jazz in a trade deal just before the trade deadline.
Raptors’ general manager Bobby Webster expressed his excitement about the signing, stating, “We’ve been a fan of Kelly’s game for a long time and are thrilled he will continue his career in Toronto.”
The two-year extension for Olynyk is reported to be worth $26.25 million. The 32-year-old center has been a consistent performer, averaging 8.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 4.2 assists in 59 games this season with the Jazz and Raptors.
Olynyk, the 13th overall pick in the 2013 NBA draft, has had a successful career playing for various teams including Boston, Miami, Houston, Detroit, and the Jazz. He also contributed to the Canadian team that won bronze at the 2023 FIBA World Cup.
In addition to the signing of Olynyk, the Raptors also added forward Mouhamadou Gueye on a two-way contract and waived guard Markquis Nowell. The team currently holds a 23-38 record, placing them 12th in the Eastern Conference standings.
The Raptors have faced some challenges with injuries, as All-Star forward Scottie Barnes is out indefinitely due to a hand injury, and center Jakob Poeltl recently exited a game due to a dislocated pinkie. Both Poeltl and guard Bruce Brown will miss the upcoming game against New Orleans, with Brown also sitting out the previous game against Charlotte.
The Raptors continue to navigate through the season with a mix of experienced veterans like Olynyk and promising young talents, aiming to improve their standing in the competitive Eastern Conference.
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