Deng Adel changes Timberwolves plan, heads north for Toronto
After originally agreeing to join the Minnesota Timberwolves for training camp, Deng Adel has decided to head north of the border to become a Toronto Raptor.
As first reported by The Athletic's Shams Charania, Adel will sign a partially guaranteed deal to take his talents to Canada with the expected terms to be an Exhibit 10 deal, similar to that of Mitch Creek with the Brooklyn Nets.
https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1040235895205580800
The move is an interesting one, though perhaps Toronto presented a greater opportunity for the former Louisville Cardinal to see the floor. A contender in the Eastern Conference, the Raptors also boast one of the G League's best developmental programs at the Raptors 905.
In recent days, the Timberwolves had agreed to a deal with NBA veteran Luol Deng, who joins former No. 1 overall pick Andrew Wiggins in a relative logjam at the wing positions. Minnesota coach Tom Thibodeau is well renowned for keeping his rotation tight, and running his veterans into the ground, which may have played a part in the young Aussie's decision to head north.
The fact Adel was able to change course with other options on the table is a testament to his excellent finish to the Las Vegas Summer League, where he was able to work through a slow start to produce a number of eye catching performances.
https://pickandroll.com.au/surviving-grind-perspectives-aussies-nba-summer-league/
According to Spotrac, the Raptors do still have one of their allotted two-way contracts still free, meaning Adel could be in the mix for the valuable deal, which would allow him to switch between the NBA and G-League throughout the season.
In a recent chat with The Pick and Roll, Adel spoke about his excitement for the deal with Minnesota, and his readiness to get down to work in search of an opening night roster spot.
“It’s a great opportunity to head down and try to get straight on their [15-man team] roster – I am heading there next week to start working out early so I am ready and waiting for training camp in mid September,” shared Adel.
The location may be changing, but the goal remains the same. Adel will have the training camp and preseason period to stake his claim and earn himself guaranteed money, including a potential NBA debut with the Raptors.