The Toronto Raptors are continuing their efforts this offseason trying to build a better contending squad for next year, this time signing center Bismack Biyombo to a multiyear contract. No other information was disclosed about the deal.
Biyombo was originally drafted by the Sacramento Kings seventh overall back in 2011 but was traded to the Charlotte Hornets during draft night.
The 22-year-old athlete played all four of his NBA seasons with the Hornets where he usually comes off the bench.
Last season, Biyombo played in 64 games which included 21 starts and averaged 4.8 points, 6.4 rebounds and 1.5 blocks (17th in the NBA) per outing.
Biyombo is a huge addition for the Raptors' frontline as he can be contributing best with his defense and rebounding.
He will likely be the main backup for starting center Jonas Valančiūnas who showed great improvement last season.
Biyombo is also a great pickup for Toronto following the departure of power forward Amir Johnson this offseason to join the Boston Celtics on a two-year deal.
"Bismack brings athleticism and interior length to our team. He has proven to be an exceptional rim protector and his physicality will be a great asset to us defensively," Toronto Raptors President and General Manager Masai Ujiri said in a statement posted on the team's website.
Along with Biyombo, the Raptors also acquired guard Cory Joseph and veteran forwards DeMarre Carroll and Luis Scola this offseason.
Twelve-year veteran guard Luke Ridnour who was traded to four teams in less than a week ended up in Toronto and is also a new addition to the Raptors.
The Raptors are hoping these offseason moves pay off during the regular season as they campaign for a third consecutive playoff appearance.
Toronto has reached the playoffs in the past two seasons but was unable to make it past the first round after eliminations suffered against the Brooklyn Nets (2013-14) and the Washington Wizards (2014-15).
