Raptors Bring in Mo Bamba as Short-Term Cover Amid Poeltl Injury Concerns
So here’s what’s going on with the Toronto Raptors right now, and it’s one of those moves that might not grab headlines immediately but makes a lot of sense when you look closer. With starting centre Jakob Poeltl sidelined due to a strained back, the Raptors have decided to protect themselves by bringing in Mo Bamba on a non-guaranteed one-year deal. Timing-wise, it feels anything but random.
The team had already indicated that an update on Poeltl’s condition would be shared soon, and almost simultaneously, reports surfaced confirming that Bamba would be signed. It’s being viewed very much as an insurance policy, not a long-term commitment. In fact, the contract won’t be guaranteed until January 10, which essentially turns this into a two-week audition for the seven-footer.
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Bamba, who stands at seven feet tall, is now 27 years old and comes with plenty of NBA experience, even if his career hasn’t quite taken the superstar trajectory some expected. He was drafted sixth overall by the Orlando Magic back in 2018, a pick that came with high expectations thanks to his rare combination of size, wingspan, and shot-blocking potential. Since then, his journey has taken him through five NBA teams over seven seasons, totaling 364 games played.
Most recently, Bamba had been suiting up in the G League with Salt Lake City, staying ready while waiting for another NBA opportunity. That opportunity has now arrived in Toronto, and the situation suits both sides. For the Raptors, depth at centre has suddenly become a concern, especially if Poeltl’s back issue lingers longer than hoped. For Bamba, this is a chance to prove he still belongs at the NBA level and can contribute when called upon.
It should be noted that expectations are being kept realistic. This isn’t about reshaping the roster or finding a new cornerstone. Instead, it’s about stability. If Poeltl misses time, minutes need to be covered, practices need bodies, and games need a legitimate rim protector. That’s where Bamba fits in. His length, experience, and familiarity with NBA systems make him a low-risk option.
If things work out and Bamba shows he can give the Raptors reliable minutes, the deal could become guaranteed. If not, the team retains flexibility, which is clearly a priority here. For now, it’s a practical move made at the right moment, one that reflects a front office focused on staying prepared rather than scrambling later.
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