On a team that looks Finals-worthy next summer, forward Serge Ibaka might be the most perplexing piece for the Raptors heading into 2018-19.
When you discuss Ibaka in any capacity, there’s a tendency to compare his output against the weight of his contract. Now in the second year of a 3-year, $65 million contract, Ibaka may never back this up with performances that measure up. Last season, he averaged 12.6 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks in 76 games played.
Basic stats aside, though — Ibaka shouldn’t be evaluated based on his contract, but rather what he can provide a team with title aspirations this season.