Raptors Rookie Murray-Boyles Emerges; Sixers Turn to Wade and Hukporti; Nets Prioritize Flexibility
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Toronto — First-year forward Collin Murray-Boyles has moved from being the No. 9 pick to an essential piece of the Raptors’ future after a standout postseason. The 21-year-old averaged 14.4 points, 6.4 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 1.3 steals and 1.1 blocks while helping Toronto push eventual East finalist Cleveland to seven games.
“One of the biggest compliments you can have as a rookie is to contribute in a playoff series,” Murray-Boyles said. He credited extensive film study of teammate Scottie Barnes for sharpening his playmaking despite perimeter shooting questions–a role the club expects him to expand next season.
Murray-Boyles was slated for Summer League action before a hand injury sidelined him, but he said the time off has heightened his anticipation for training camp.
Sixers Seek Two-Way Help
Philadelphia — When free agency opened, the 76ers’ first call went to 6-foot-9 forward Dean Wade, despite his career scoring average of under six points. Team officials value Wade’s defensive versatility, offensive rebounding and 36.7% career three-point shooting as complements to a roster heavy on shot creators.
Philadelphia also replaced veteran backup center Andre Drummond with 22-year-old Ariel Hukporti. The 7-footer offers size and rim protection similar to draft pick Adem Bona but must reduce foul trouble to secure regular minutes.
Nets Keep Options Open
Brooklyn — General manager Sean Marks indicated the Nets are unlikely to spend the remainder of their cap space immediately. “You just never know what’s going to come your way, so for us to have that optionality will be really important,” Marks said, adding that he is comfortable with the current roster while continuing to monitor future opportunities.
Source: Hoops Rumors
