Sa Coach Provides Early Thoughts on DJ Carton
The most recent addition to the Toronto Raptors made his NBA debut memorable on Thursday night by scoring his first points in the league. He drove past Brooklyn Nets forward Jalen Wilson, executing a left-handed floater while drawing contact for an and-1 finish late in the fourth quarter.
Carter’s appearance was primarily during garbage time, as he played only four minutes in his first NBA game since signing a 10-day contract with Toronto earlier that week.
Following the game, Raptors coach Darko Rajaković expressed appreciation for Carter’s tenacity, stating, “I like the determination he brings. Our scouts and front office have been tracking him for a while, and they hold him in high regard. We’ll continue evaluating him, integrating him into our playing groups.” Rajaković added that he was pleased Carter had the opportunity to take the floor and showcase his skills.
Standing at 6 feet 3 inches tall, Carton went undrafted in 2021 from Marquette and has spent the last three seasons in the G League with the Greensboro Swarm and Iowa Wolves. He boasted averages of 18.6 points, 5.7 assists, and 1.6 steals per game while shooting 39.5% from three-point range in 29 G League appearances this season.
Toronto signed the 23-year-old following the conclusion of 10-day contracts for Justise Winslow and Mouhamadou Gueye. Despite having one vacant roster spot, there’s no immediate pressure to fill it.
Upon the expiration of Carton’s contract, Toronto has several options: they can extend him for another 10-day deal, offer him a standard contract, or have a two-week window to find a replacement.
