Bismack Biyombo was a huge factor in the Toronto Raptors’ playoff run this season, and now he is set to cash in on the free agent market. The five-year veteran burst onto the scene in the postseason thanks to his big plays, rebounding, and rim protection, and he also seemed like he energized the team with his style of play. He even channeled the likes of legends like Vince Carter and Dikembe Mutombo during the team’s run to the Eastern Conference Finals.
With the Raptors coming just two wins away from the Finals this year, the team is looking to bring back its core for next season, and that includes Biyombo. After securing DeMar DeRozan, the Raptors’ primary goal will be to try and bring the Congolese center back to round out their frontcourt.
However, Toronto GM Masai Ujiri has said that he ownership is committed to Toronto going into luxury tax territory, a seeming inevitability of inking both DeRozan and Biyombo to big-money deals. But the Raptors, surprisingly, might be able to avoid that financial penalty. Why? Biyombo has said he is willing to take a hometown discount to remain in the red and white next season.
While appearing on Sportsnet 590 The FAN’s The Andrew Walker Show, Biyombo said he expects to be back in Canada next season – even if that means he has to take less money.
“Yeah. Things can always be worked out. “I’ve said that to my people, I’ve said that to Masai. When the right time comes I’d be open to figuring something out. At the end of the day, it’s for fun, not money. It’s not always about money. Money is great, but at the same time I ask ‘how much fun am I going to have?’ The city is great, the team is great, and we’re winning.”
Biyombo coming back for less money would allow Toronto to hold onto a key piece while also having a little more flexibility to grab other free agents, so this is a significant development if he means what he says. While it may be tough for him to turn away a huge money contract offer he gets from somewhere else, Biyombo sounds like he wants to stay in Toronto, and as long as they make him a reasonable offer, it looks as though he will.
(Via SportsNet)
