3 Most Likely Gary Trent Jr. Free Agent Destinations

Gary Trent Jr. was given a huge opportunity when he traded from the Portland Trail Blazers to the Toronto Raptors during the past regular season. With the Trail Blazers, he was stuck in Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum's shadow, unable to get as many touches as he would've liked. However, Trent showed what he was capable of in Toronto, starting in 15 out of 17 games with the Raptors and averaging 16.2 points, 3.6 rebounds and 1.3 assists.

Now, Trent is set to hit free agency this offseason and could see a huge pay boost. He's a restricted free agent, though, so the Raptors can control his destiny by matching any offers he gets. Still, it doesn't mean that teams won't go after his services.

Here's a look at three of the most likely free-agent destinations for Trent Jr.

Gary Trent Jr. Free Agency

3. Cleveland Cavaliers

One thing that the Cleveland Cavaliers lack is wing depth. While they did take Isaac Okoro fifth overall in the 2020 draft, it's hard to expect a developing player to be that much of a game-changer. Bringing in Trent would allow him to assume a starter role as Okoro improves. Plus, having two young small forwards under the age of 23 is not something that many teams have the luxury of. It also wouldn't be hard for Cavaliers fans to get excited at the prospect of building the team around the likes of Trent Jr., Collin Sexton and Darius Garland.

2. Los Angeles Lakers

An interesting scenario would see Trent head over to the Los Angeles Lakers, who have some money coming off the books this offseason. One of those contracts is Dennis Schroder's $15.5 million, which could be used to bring in Trent. After all, Trent is six years younger than Schroder and the team could use more young players to build around as their core ages. LeBron James could easily spend more time at the point guard position, while Trent and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope could split time at shooting guard and small forward. At the end of the day, the Lakers shouldn't pass up on the opportunity to get better and younger.

1. Toronto Raptors

The most obvious scenario would be for Trent to stay put in Toronto. After all, as mentioned before, the Raptors can match any offer sent his way. However, it helps that Trent has openly commented on being interested in returning as a Raptor. With Toronto potentially entering a rebuild and possibly losing Kyle Lowry to free agency, they could use a young player like Trent in their core. He already fits in the age group with guys like Fred VanVleet, Pascal Siakam and OG Anunoby, so he may as well stick around rather than the Raptors having to go out to find another shooting guard somewhere else.

Sign up for FanDuel Sportsbook today and get your first bet risk free for up to $1,000!