Toronto Makes Roster Move Involving Three Rookies

The Toronto Raptors are assigning Ja’Kobe Walter, Jonathan Mogbo and Jamal Shead to Raptors 905.

The trio of rookies will play in their first home game of the season Friday evening against the Long Island Nets. They’ll be joined by rookie second-round pick Ulrich Chomche.

This was initially going to be the plan for the Raptors rookies. To gradually develop and get reps in with the 905. However, the Raptors early-season injuries had them join the big club earlier than expected. Mogbo and Shead have seen consistent playing time, meanwhile Walter has spent much of the season sidelined with a pair of AC joint injuries.

“We are one team, and they need to understand that. We spent a lot of time during the summer together, coaching staffs, players, we work together, and we’re really one team,” Raptors coach Darko Rajakovic said.

Mogbo and Shead should be back with the Raptors when they begin a four-game road trip starting in Cleveland on Nov. 24 against the Cavaliers.

The Raptors could elect to keep Walter with the 905 to help his development as he gets fully healthy.

Once the Raptors are at full strength, all three rookies will likely spend a lot more time with the 905.

Raptors coach Darko Rajakovic compares Anthony Edwards to Michael Jordan

Darko Rajakovic had his hands full trying to contain Edwards but ultimately picked up an impressive win. The former No. 1 pick led the Timberwolves in scoring with 26 points on 9-for-20 from the field.

Before the game, Toronto’s head coach praised Edwards and compared him to one of, if not the greatest player of all time: Michael Jordan.