As the NBA season moves past the trade deadline, attention around the league quickly shifts toward the buyout market. For teams like the Toronto Raptors, this stage of the calendar represents a low-risk opportunity to address roster needs without sacrificing future assets. While Toronto has already made several moves this season, the potential release of Chris Paul would open an additional roster spot and give the front office flexibility to look for veteran help.
The Raptors are not expected to make aggressive additions, but the buyout market could offer players who help stabilize late-game execution, improve bench scoring, or add depth at key positions. Several names have already emerged, while others could become available in the coming weeks.
Who Should the Raptors Target in the Buyout Market?
Cam Thomas: Instant Offense Off The Bench
One of the most intriguing names connected to the buyout market is Cam Thomas, who was recently waived by Brooklyn. If available, Thomas would immediately stand out as one of the most natural scorers Toronto could add without committing long-term money.
Thomas’ biggest strength is his ability to create offense on his own. He can score at all three levels and does not need plays drawn up to be effective. For a Raptors team that has struggled at times to generate consistent offense with the second unit, his skill set could be extremely valuable.
He would give Toronto a reliable scoring option off the bench and help prevent extended offensive droughts. There is also a case for Thomas being useful late in games. While his defense remains a question mark, his shot-making ability could make him a situational closing option, especially when the Raptors need quick offense. His presence would force defenses to adjust, opening space for players like Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram. Even in a limited role, Thomas could swing momentum in close games.
Matisse Thybulle: Defensive Impact And 3-and-D Potential
Another name that could make sense for Toronto is Matisse Thybulle, who was recently bought out by the Portland Trail Blazers. Thybulle’s value is rooted in his defensive impact, an area where the Raptors have lacked consistency, particularly on the perimeter. At his best, he is capable of guarding multiple positions, disrupting passing lanes, and creating turnovers that lead to transition opportunities.
While his offensive game has always been limited, Thybulle has shown flashes as a respectable corner three-point shooter earlier in his career, especially during his time with the 76ers. In Toronto, he would not be asked to carry an offensive load. Instead, his role would focus on defense, spacing, and energy. As a situational 3-and-D option, Thybulle could help stabilize lineups late in games and provide a defensive counter when matchups demand it.
Lonzo Ball: Control, Playmaking, And Late-Game Stability
Another potential target is Lonzo Ball, whose name continues to surface in buyout discussions. While injuries have defined much of his recent career, Ball still offers qualities the Raptors clearly lack at times. Toronto has struggled with ball security late in contests. Turnovers, rushed possessions, and poor spacing have often cost them winnable games. Ball’s strengths directly address those issues. He is a steady ball handler and a willing passer. Furthermore, he is a player who understands how to organize an offense under pressure. His ability to generate assists and move the ball quickly could help stabilize late-game lineups.
That said, there are clear risks. Ball’s shooting efficiency has dipped this season, and his health remains a concern. He is not a player who would solve scoring issues by himself. However, in a limited role focused on playmaking and defense, Ball could still bring value. For a team prioritizing structure and execution, his presence could help reduce mistakes during crucial moments.
Jan 30, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Lonzo Ball (2) against the Phoenix Suns at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Roster Flexibility And Realistic Expectations
The buyout market is rarely about finding a franchise-altering piece. Instead, it is about marginal gains. For Toronto, the likely release of Paul would open a roster spot that allows them to take a calculated swing. Any addition would be expected to complement the existing core rather than reshape it.
It is also worth noting that the Raptors could have pursued more impactful moves at the trade deadline. Additional shooting, size, or defensive help may have been available with a more aggressive approach. The buyout market now represents a secondary chance to address some of those gaps, even if the options are more limited.
Balancing Immediate Needs And Future Plans
The Toronto Raptors’ priorities in the buyout market should be clear: improve offensive consistency, reduce late-game mistakes, and add experience without compromising future flexibility. Thomas offers scoring punch, Ball provides control and playmaking, and Thybulle brings defense.
None of these players would change the franchise’s direction on their own. However, in a season focused on evaluation and growth, the right buyout addition could help the Raptors close games more effectively and better support their core moving forward. The Raptors still control their flexibility moving forward. Management can evaluate short-term additions without committing long-term money.
Featured Image:Â Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images