The Toronto Raptors have made a move that’s sure to raise eyebrows, officially bringing Jared Rhoden on board. As the former Detroit Pistons guard settles into his new home north of the border, all eyes are on whether we’ll witness a Jared Rhoden rise in the NBA, or if he’ll remain the wild card he’s been in his short career.
Raptors Roll the Dice: Will Jared Rhoden Rise or Fall?
Rhoden, a Seton Hall alum, is fresh off a season where he played 17 games for the Pistons, averaging 4.9 points and 1.9 rebounds per game. His shooting stats are impressive—50% from the field and nearly 39% from beyond the arc. But here’s where it gets interesting: Rhoden didn’t just survive in the NBA; he thrived in the G League, averaging over 21 points per game with solid numbers in rebounds, assists, and steals. This duality in performance makes him both an enigma and a potential gem for the Raptors.
According to Blake Murphy of Sportsnet, Rhoden’s deal is an Exhibit 10 contract—a camp invite with a twist. Rhoden will have to battle it out for the coveted 15th roster spot or a two-way contract. If he doesn’t make the cut, there’s still a silver lining—a bonus if he’s sent to Raptors 905, the team’s G League affiliate. This move suggests that the Raptors see something worth nurturing, even if it means starting him in the developmental league.
Rhoden’s career so far has been a tale of potential overshadowed by uncertainty. His NBA numbers—4.1 points and 2.3 rebounds across 31 games—don’t exactly scream “star,” but his G League stats tell a different story. With 21.2 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game last year, Rhoden was nothing short of a standout. Yet, questions linger: Can he translate G League success to the NBA? And will the Raptors’ young core, led by Scottie Barnes and RJ Barrett, provide the right environment for Rhoden to flourish?
The Raptors, coming off a dismal 25-57 season, are in desperate need of fresh talent and new energy. Rhoden might just be the spark they need—or he could be another name that fades into the background. His signing is a high-risk, high-reward play that could either pay off big or backfire spectacularly. Only time will tell if Rhoden is the underdog who beats the odds or just another cautionary tale in the unpredictable world of professional basketball.
The Raptors’ decision to sign Jared Rhoden on an Exhibit 10 deal is a calculated gamble. While his G League numbers suggest a player with significant potential, his limited success in the NBA raises doubts. This move speaks volumes about the Raptors’ strategy—they’re willing to take risks on players with high ceilings but uncertain floors. It’s a bold approach, one that could redefine their future or deepen their woes.
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