Report: Raptors waive Ish Wainwright
The Raptors roster stands at 15, while the 905 roster looks to be filling out nicely.
According to a report from Blake Murphy, the Toronto Raptors have waived forward Ish Wainwright, leaving the roster at the maximum 15 players as the season opener approaches.
The Raptors have waived Ishmail Wainright.
— Blake Murphy (@BlakeMurphyODC) October 16, 2021
He should have interest around the league as a positionally versatile defender and maybe the best person I’ve ever met around the sport.
Sam Dekker makes the roster.
As Murphy notes, Sam Dekker makes the roster, as does Isaac Bonga.
Wainwright played well in the last two preseason games, as did Dekker, making this a tough choice for Nick Nurse and co. Ultimately I think Dekker’s quick release and ability to relocate around the three point line were what gave him the edge over Wainwright’s size and athleticism.
It’s possible the Raptors end up waiving one more player, such as Dekker or Bonga, today or tomorrow, and go into the season with the minimum allowable roster size (14). That would save them a few bucks, and it’s something they’ve done before, notably during the championship season. But with the uncertainly of the coronavirus and the health and safety protocols, carrying 15 players (plus the two two-way contracts) seems like a more logical move in my mind.
Meanwhile, the Raptors 905 have started filling out their roster ahead of the 2021-22 G League season, which starts next month. We know for sure that Alex Antetokounmpo, Josh Hall, Ashton Hagans and Breein Tyree all signed exhibit 10 contracts with the Raptors the last few days, were then waived and signed to the 905. I believe the same scenario played out with Reggie Perry, although I can’t find an official confirmation!
Meanwhile, the 905 also acquired Michael Frazier via trade earlier this month, but Murphy reports he’s likely heading overseas. Andrew Rowsey, however, acquired in a big five-team trade last week, looks to be sticking with the 905. Undrafted guard Obadiah Noel will also be in 905 camp, which starts later this month.
In addition to adding Andrew Rowsey via trade yesterday, undrafted U-Mass Lowell guard Obadiah Noel will join Raptors 905 in camp as an open tryout player.
— Blake Murphy (@BlakeMurphyODC) October 16, 2021
Jawun Evans and Kevon Harris also look to be returning from last year’s team.
As he has for the last few seasons, our guy JD Quirante will be covering the 905 for Raptors HQ this season, so look out for lots more from him, including game coverage and The Prospect Report, as the G League season gets underway.