Former Toronto Raptors big man Branden Carlson has signed with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Carlson signed a two-way deal with the Raptors after going undrafted in the 2024 NBA Draft. He played for the Raptors in Summer League and also played in limited minutes in the preseason. However, the Raptors opted to go in a different direction and waived Carlson to make room for Jamison Battle who the team signed on a two-way deal.
The Raptors final frontcourt spot was ultimately given to Bruno Fernando who has since been the team’s backup center with Kelly Olynyk out.
Carlson’s deal with the Thunder is a standard one-year contract, according to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto. The Thunder needed more frontcourt depth since they have been dealing with injuries to Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein.
The Raptors kept Carlson’s G League rights and the 25-year-old started the year with Raptors 905. He played in three games for the 905, averaging 14.3 points, 8.7 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 1.7 blocks on 51.5 percent shooting from the floor and 42.9 percent shooting from three.
The Raptors will not receive any compensation from the Thunder for Carlson’s departure. However, if the Thunder waive him later this year, then his G League rights will return to the 905.
Carlson was a fifth-year senior for the Utah Utes last year. He averaged 17 points and 6.6 rebounds while shooting 37.9 percent from deep. He looked like a promising player for the Raptors since he has a solid 7-foot frame and can space the floor. Ultimately, it is unfortunate that things did not work out between both sides.
Ochai Agbaji’s development has been big positive for Raptors
The Toronto Raptors haven’t been doing a whole lot of winning, but they have seen some great development from their young players.
One of those players is Ochai Agbaji. After a disappointing Summer League, there were questions about Agbaji and if he would be able to carve out a significant role with the Raptors.
Early-season injuries gave Agbaji an opportunity to prove himself. Thrusted into the starting lineup, Agbaji has been turning heads with his improved play. Particularly on the offensive side on the ball.
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