Toronto Raptors, E.J. Singler Agree To Training Camp Deal

After spending part of last season with the Raptors 905 and Summer League with the Toronto Raptors, E.J. Singler has agreed to a training camp deal that will keep him in Toronto for the foreseeable future. In addition to that, he has also agreed to spend the year in the D-League and play for the 905, assuming he does not make the final roster.

Singler appeared in 10 games for the 905 last season after being traded from the Idaho Stampede. While with the 905, the former Oregon Duck averaged an impressive 14.7 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game while shooting 47.5 percent from deep.

At the age of 26, E.J. is a finished product. What you see is exactly what you get with him. What he can offer teams is reliable three point shooting and length on the wing. Unfortunately, that is all he can offer. He isn't overly athletic and his defense leaves something to be desired, but he could be a valuable role player off the bench in Toronto or on any NBA team.

Singler could be utilized in this offense like Mike Miller or Steve Novak would be, in that he would play 10-15 minutes a game and be used strictly for his shooting. Toronto was just outside the top ten in three point percentage at 35.6 percent and feature a non-shooting starting back court duo. If they are truly looking to become one of the premier teams in the Eastern Conference, they will need players like Singler to come in and make an impact.

If he does not make the final roster in Toronto, he will be in for one of his best D-League seasons yet. After being traded to the 905 for a draft pick, Singler enjoyed his best string of games in his career. Before the move, he was averaging 7.25 points, 3.19 rebounds, and 1.28 assists while shooting 38 percent from deep. Following the change of scenery, his numbers almost doubled and his shooting percentage from deep went up by almost ten percent.

Fighting for the last roster spot will be tough, as competition is especially stiff this year. Wichita State alum Fred VanVleet and former Iowa forward Jarrod Uthoff are both signed to partially guaranteed deals and may look more attractive over the 26 year old D-League veteran.

One thing is for sure, Singler is a hard worker who will fight for his spot. Being a 6’6” shooter is valuable to teams and something Toronto will be very interested in. Regardless of what happens, chances are we will be seeing Singler in the D-League at some point this season, either on assignment or as a member of the 905.