The Raptors’ stint in Vegas concluded with a disappointing blowout loss to the Miami Heat, putting a damper on what had initially been a promising start. Despite the setback, one positive takeaway was the opportunity for the team to evaluate their three two-way players for the upcoming season. As Toronto continues to search for talent, the question arises: can any of these two-way players earn a spot on the main roster?
D.J. Carton, a familiar face from the previous season, showed flashes of his skills during his time with the Raptors. The 6-2 guard, who played four games with the main team last season, unfortunately, had his opportunity cut short by an ankle injury. Known for his slashing and defensive prowess, Carton has struggled to find consistency with his outside shot, shooting just 31% from three across various leagues. While he has performed well in Vegas, his inability to stand out and ongoing struggles with shooting from deep may hinder his chances of making the main roster.
On the defensive end, Carton’s limitations in guarding bigger opponents and grabbing rebounds have raised concerns. With his struggles to score inside the arc and lack of impact offensively, Carton faces an uphill battle in earning a permanent spot with the team. However, given Toronto’s need for a third-string center, his size, three-point shooting, and shot-blocking abilities could potentially earn him a spot in the rotation.
Ulrich Chomche, the 57th overall draft pick, brings a unique background to the team. With less than a decade of basketball experience, the 6-10 forward showcases smooth athleticism and impressive passing skills. Despite his raw potential, Chomche’s overeagerness in shot-blocking and limitations on offense have surfaced in Vegas. While he has demonstrated flashes of brilliance, Chomche still has a long way to go before he can contribute meaningfully at the NBA level.
With 15 players under guaranteed contracts, the Raptors still have gaps to fill in their frontcourt. Carlson, with his versatile skill set, emerges as the most likely candidate to secure a two-way deal next season. Despite his potential, Carton may struggle for minutes in a crowded guard rotation, while Chomche, with his upside, remains a work in progress unlikely to make the leap to the main roster in the immediate future. As the Raptors aim to balance development with competitiveness, the path for their two-way players to success remains uncertain.
