NBA Rumors: 3 free agents that could join the Toronto Raptors in the coming weeks

The Toronto Raptors enjoyed an excellent start to the 18/19 season. The Raptors held the best record in the NBA for much of 2018 and the team also picked up a number of impressive wins over teams such as the Golden State Warriors and Boston Celtics. Kawhi Leonard also slotted seemingly into his new surroundings, and the initial backlash that the organization received for trading away DeMar DeRozan quickly faded.

Fast forward to March of 2019 and the Raptors sit 2nd in the Eastern Conference standings, however, after a series of under-par displays throughout the early part of the year, doubts remain over Toronto's ability to compete with the Eastern Conferences best during the playoffs.

After years of disappointing early playoff exits, the Raptors are desperate to go far this season, and the organization is also mindful that Leonard's future could depend on a deep run. Nevertheless, the Raptors still have an open roster spot to fill ahead of the postseason, and here we will look at the three players that Toronto could turn to in order to boost their postseason chances.

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#3 Alex Abrines

Alex Abrines left the Oklahoma City Thunder last month

Alex Abrines' availability for the rest of the season is currently unknown due to his continued personal issues. Nevertheless, if Abrines is cleared to play for the rest of the season, he will immediately become one of the hottest free agents available ahead of the playoffs.

The 25-year-old has earned a reputation for his ability to knock down both open and contested three's, and there is no doubting that he could be a good addition to a Toronto team that is currently ranked 18th in three-point accuracy. Rival teams may be put off by the Spaniard's poor form ahead of his release earlier this month, although if Abrines has managed to overcome his personal issues, he could be a good addition until the summer.

#2 Carmelo Anthony

Anthony spent last season with the Oklahoma City Thunder

There is no doubting that the Toronto Raptors would benefit from having more shooters on the bench, and with the Los Angeles Lakers seemingly out of the race to acquire Carmelo Anthony, Toronto has a clear shot at acquiring the 10-time All-Star.

Admittedly, Melo is no longer the same player that won the NBA scoring title back in 2013, however, during his stints with both the Rockets and Thunder, Anthony still demonstrated his ability to score. Last season in Oklahoma City, Anthony averaged 16.2 points per game, whereas from the Houston bench this season, the 34-year-old averaged 13.4.

Anthony is also a career 35% shooter from beyond the arc, and it is hard to argue against the fact that he would be an upgrade to the Raptors' bench. Ultimately, Anthony has been confined to the sidelines since November and he will be raring to contribute to a contending team.

#1 Marcin Gortat

Marcin Gortat most recently spent time with the Los Angeles Clippers

Back on February 7, 2019, Marcin Gortat was waived by the LA Clippers, and according to Raptors Beat Reporter Josh Lewenberg, the Toronto organization could be about to make a move for the veteran:

The Raptors could use their vacant 14th roster spot to add some frontcourt depth/insurance. One player to keep an eye on is former Wizards C Marcin Gortat. Have heard there's mutual interest.

During his six month spell with the Clippers, Gortat was a regular starter, averaging 5.0 points and 5.6 rebounds in 16.0 minutes per game.

The 35-year-old also has plenty of recent postseason experience, and he most notably played an important role in the Washington Wizard's 2017 run to the East Semifinals. Ultimately, the Raptors may face a large amount of competition for Gortat's signature, although there is no doubting that the veteran would find minutes in the Raptors rotation.