Toronto Raptors take a chance on young player with their latest signing

The Toronto Raptors have signed Toronto born and raised AJ Lawson to a two-year deal

As the season winds to a close for the Toronto Raptors, a few last contract ends needs to be tied. One comes with the signing of Toronto’s own AJ Lawson to a standard NBA deal.

Lawson, who played in the CEBL before eventually making his way to the Raptors, is the latest Canadian talent this team has rewarded. The franchise has made a substantial effort to bring in, try out, and often reward both Canadian and Toronto grown talent. Even before the recent surge of Canadian patriotism came about.

RJ Barrett is probably the biggest recipient of that, being brought home in a trade in late 2023. He’s played phenomenally since coming home. Then there was Kelly Olynyk, who the Raptors traded for before signing to a contract and then ultimately trading as part of the Brandon Ingram deal. Still got his money though.

Now Lawson will get an extended look. This two-year deal is not guaranteed for the entire stretch, but this allows him to participate in the Raptors’ summer program and training camp. The team will get an extended look at him and be able to decide whether or not he should be on the roster going into next season. It’s also a pay raise for the local player.

Lawson has averaged 8.8 points and 3.2 rebounds for the Raptors this season when he has played, given extended minutes due to injuries and rest protocol for other players.

Expect a few more bookkeeping transactions from the Raptors this weekend.