Jordan Nwora was acquired by the Toronto Raptors in the trade for Pascal Siakam.
While many people were quick to assume that Nwora and Kira Lewis Jr. were simply throw-ins in the deal that featured the Raptors receiving three first-round picks, that is not looking to be the case.
The Raptors have been shorthanded with RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley and Jakob Poeltl out, so Nwora has gotten some playing time over the Raptors two previous matchups.
Nwora quickly went to work in the Raptors game against the Hawks. He poured in 24 points from off the bench on 7-16 shooting. He also had 6 assists and 9 rebounds.
Then Nwora was back at it again in Chicago. In 19 minutes of action Nwora scored 17 points on 5-7 shooting from the field and 4-5 shooting from three.
One of his three-pointers made came in a four-point play:
BUCKET + THE FOUL for @JordanNwora pic.twitter.com/gC7BT2Vw5q
— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) January 31, 2024
Then Nwora showed off his athleticism and almost had a poster dunk that got the entire Raptors bench on its feet:
Jordan Nwora almost deleted the entire Bulls defense 😭 pic.twitter.com/mJkO14oKmR
— Norm pls win 💫 (@SpidaXRaptors) January 31, 2024
It’s a small two-game sample size but Nwora looks like a player who can be a key bench piece for Toronto. He is exactly the kind of bench contributor the Raptors need. Someone who can shoot, create off the dribble and also play defense.
Nwora is an unrestricted free agent this summer, but if he continues to play like this it is a no brainer for the Raptors to bring him back.
He is only 25-years-old so he still fits a rebuilding timeline and he can be an excellent scoring option for the Raptors second unit.
Nwora has made the most of his opportunities so far and he will certainly get more minutes down the stretch.
Nwora could end up being the hidden gem in the Siakam trade.
Scottie Barnes No. 1 in jersey sales in Canada
Scottie Barnes is undoubtedly the face of the Raptors franchise.
The third year player is officially No. 1 in jersey sales in Canada. Raptors rookie Gradey Dick is at No. 15.
Have you subscribed to the Raptors Nation YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in live shows, and more!
