Grade the deal: Raptors get a steal, albeit a limited one, in Biyombo
The Toronto Raptors have agreed to a two-year, $6 million contract with free agent center Bismack Biyombo, reports Yahoo's Adrian Wojnarowski.
Biyombo marks Toronto's second addition of the off-season, joining DeMarre Carroll as another defensive-minded free ageny move by the Raptors and general manager Masai Ujiri. He comes in on somewhat of a bargain contract relative to the way teams have spending in free agency. Wojnarowski reports Toronto seeks a "tougher, more physical roster" next season.
Biyombo, 22, was the seventh overall pick in the 2011 draft by Charlotte. In four seasons, he's averaged 4.4 points, 6.1 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game. The Hornets declined to extend him a qualifying offer.
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Toronto lost power forward Amir Johnson to the Boston Celtics in free agency.
Analysis: Centers don’t usually come on contracts this cheap. Biyombo did for good reason. While broad evaluations of Biyombo’s game likely underrate his value as a defender and rebounder, his dead-weight offensive game is a considerable problem. Any NBA big without range who can’t catch, pass or shoot is going to cost his team in all kinds of ways. Fortunately, Biyombo plays a position where quality defense and even bare-minimum offense would be enough to make him a useful player. Toronto is betting that Biyombo, who after four NBA seasons is just 22 years old, might get there in time. It’s a fair gamble given the cost. — Rob Mahoney
