Toronto — A 17-point fourth-quarter collapse against San Antonio dropped the Raptors to 4-15 versus the NBA’s top 10 teams, underscoring an offense that often stalls in half-court sets.
Forward RJ Barrett has struggled to spark that attack since returning from an ankle sprain, averaging 14.8 points on 40.0% shooting. The 23-year-old enters the final season of his contract next year at $29.6 million, and league sources indicate rival clubs view his deal as Toronto’s most movable salary if management elects to reshuffle the roster. Teams have shown less interest in the longer-term money owed to guard Immanuel Quickley and center Jakob Poeltl, while forward Brandon Ingram’s larger contract and future player option also complicate trade scenarios.
Pacers Eye Decision on Quenton Jackson
Indiana currently holds an open roster spot, and two-way guard Quenton Jackson is considered the leading candidate for a full contract, according to Forbes’ Tony East. Jackson’s two-way agreement expires at season’s end, and NBA rules prevent him from signing another two-way next year. The Pacers remain comfortably below the luxury-tax line, giving them flexibility to convert the deal before the March 4 two-way deadline.
Bucks Back in Mix as Giannis Nears Return
Milwaukee entered February 1 looking out of the postseason picture but has since won eight of 10 games to climb into play-in position. Star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo is reportedly close to rejoining the lineup.
Center Bobby Portis told The Athletic that the removal of trade-deadline uncertainty has allowed the roster to “play free.” Guards Kevin Porter Jr. and Ryan Rollins have led the offensive uptick, combining for more than 43 points per contest during the stretch. Porter is shooting better than 53%, while Rollins is hitting nearly 50% of his three-point attempts.
With clarity off the court and improved production on it, Milwaukee aims to solidify its standing once Antetokounmpo returns.
Source: Hoops Wire
