Raptors make surprising roster cuts ahead of the season
The Toronto Raptors are making significant changes as they finalize their roster ahead of the upcoming NBA season. In a move that has raised eyebrows among fans, the team has decided to part ways with five players, including recent draft pick Ulrich Chomche.
Roster Decisions
According to NBA insider Michael Scotto, the Raptors are requesting waivers for AJ Lawson, David Roddy, Jared Rhoden, Olivier Sarr, and Chomche. While roster adjustments are common as teams prepare for the regular season, the decision to cut Chomche, a 2024 second-round selection, has drawn particular attention.
Player Breakdown
AJ Lawson
The 25-year-old guard, a Toronto native, had the opportunity to play for his hometown team last season, averaging 9.1 points across 26 games. Lawson was operating under a two-year, non-guaranteed contract, but there remains a possibility that he could be re-signed to fill the Raptors’ vacant two-way slot, similar to last year’s arrangement.
David Roddy
Roddy, 24, was the 23rd overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, selected by the Memphis Grizzlies. However, he struggled to find a consistent role, leading to stints with the Phoenix Suns, Atlanta Hawks, and Houston Rockets since departing Memphis mid-season in 2023-24. With his experience, he might be considered for a two-way contract, although the Raptors may prioritize younger talent with greater potential.
Jared Rhoden
At 26 years old, Rhoden played 10 games for the Raptors last season, averaging 11.4 points. Despite his demonstrated potential, the Raptors have determined that his timeline does not align with their current direction.
Olivier Sarr
Sarr, also 26, is known as the brother of Alex Sarr, last year’s No. 2 overall pick of the Washington Wizards. With 46 appearances over three seasons with the Oklahoma City Thunder and a notable game-winner against the Wizards in preseason, Sarr had his moments, but ultimately the Raptors are moving forward without him.
Ulrich Chomche
Chomche, only 19 years old, was drafted 57th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft. The Raptors had hoped to harness his raw potential, but they have opted to pursue other options for their two-way contract instead.
Looking Ahead
With these roster cuts, the Raptors now sit at 14 players, leaving them with an open roster spot and a vacant two-way contract. The team’s final preseason game is set for tomorrow against the Brooklyn Nets, ahead of their season opener on Wednesday against the Atlanta Hawks. As these final decisions unfold, the Raptors continue to shape their roster for the challenges that lie ahead.
