The Toronto Raptors have reportedly signed center Freddie Gillespie from the G League’s Memphis Hustle to a 10-day contract, according to Blake Murphy and Shams Charania.
Freddie Gillespie was a G League standout. Was VERY high on my list for the G League draft and improved throughout the bubble.
Great rebounder at 6'9", a lot of room for continued growth based on how quickly he got better. https://t.co/81ffm2D4dK
— Blake Murphy (@BlakeMurphyODC) April 7, 2021
Gillespie is an undrafted 6-foot-9, 245 pound, 23-year-old forward/center from Minnesota who spent two seasons at Baylor College before playing for the Memphis Hustle in the G League this past season. In 15 games, Gillespie averaged nearly 28 minutes, 10.5 points, 10.3 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1.3 steal, 2.3 blocks, and 2.1 turnovers.
Although Gillespie is not a three-point shooter, his rebounding and rim protection should help the Raptors on the immediately defensive side of the ball.
What stands out watching him is his patience around the rim — on both sides of the floor. On defence, he effectively plays the cat-and-mouse game in the pick-and-roll, waiting for the ball handler to make a decision before making his. Offensively, he has great length and athleticism rolling to the rim and uses pump fakes and patience around the rim before going up for layups or dunks.
Learn more about Gillespie here.
