The Toronto Raptors season is virtually over and this latter half has allowed players like A.J. Lawson to get an opportunity.
As is the case for tanking teams, coaches evaluate their young talent, specifically with two-way players.
The Raptors have sifted through various players with their two-way spots, but A.J. Lawson was a particular bright spot.
As an undrafted guard, he played one game for the Minnesota Timberwolves and made a name for himself with the Dallas Mavericks.
Toronto seemingly noticed possible potential with Lawson and gave him an opportunity with winning not being at the forefront. With that, the Raptors rewarded him with a two-year contract after 25 games, via Shams Charania of ESPN:
The Toronto Raptors are converting two-way guard AJ Lawson to a two-year NBA contract, Todd Ramasar and Mike Simonetta of Life Sports Agency told ESPN. Lawson has averaged 8.8 points and 3.2 rebounds for the Raptors this season and now earns a standard deal. pic.twitter.com/2c5UDf9WaJ
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) April 11, 2025
In the month of April, Lawson has scored double-figures in five of six games. Mainly, the 24-year-old is know for his slashing and defensive tendencies.
Which has been a positive skillset with limited scoring options out on the floor. He is currently averaging 8.9 points, 3.4 rebounds and 1.2 assists on 42.1 percent from the field and 33 percent from three-point range.
Those 8.9 points are a career-high for the third year guard. But, getting that three-point percent up a few percentages could go a long way.
Free throw shooting is also an area of concern, but shooting is something every player works on. Obviously, Toronto sees something in Lawson to convert him to a standard contract.
If he is able to turn into a league average three-point shooter and continues to improve as a defender, Lawson could find himself a bench role next season.
A.J. Lawson thrilled to play for Raptors
It is also worth noting this is a homecoming for A.J. Lawson as he was born in Toronto. When he was initially signed by the Raptors, Lawson expressed how thrilled he was for this opportunity.
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