The Toronto Raptors are quietly enjoying an impressive season.
While Toronto didn’t have lofty expectations entering the year, they’ve won 20 of their first 34 games and have a legitimate chance to earn the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference.
After the Raptors’ 141-127 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Sunday, the franchise made an interesting roster move. The 2019 NBA champions signed a 7-foot former Los Angeles Lakers center to support Brandon Ingram and Scottie Barnes.
“Veteran 7-foot center Mo Bamba has agreed to sign a one-year deal with the Toronto Raptors,” ESPN’s Shams Charania reported.
Considering Bamba was the No. 6 overall pick in the 2018 draft and was regarded as a high-upside prospect, it’s fair to state the Texas product has been a bust thus far.
Bamba began his NBA career with the Orlando Magic and had his most impactful season with the franchise in 2021-22 (he averaged 10.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game).
Unfortunately, though, Bamba’s exceptionally low motor has prevented him from taking the next step in his development, which explains why he’s played for five different organizations since departing Orlando in 2023.
Still, Bamba, who competed in nine contests with the Lakers two years ago, has a golden opportunity to revive his career with the Raptors and prove he can be a valuable role player for a contending franchise.
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