Raptors' Jakob Poeltl explains why he loves playing in Toronto
While reports of his contract extension dropped last week, the Toronto Raptors made things official with Jakob Poeltl on Tuesday.
The Raptors officially announced that Poeltl had been locked down to a long-term deal, as a three-year contract starting in 2027-28, reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania.
“Toronto has always felt like home for me – I want to be a Raptor for life. Thanks to Bobby and team ownership for believing in me, and to the fans for their amazing support,” Poeltl said. “We have a young core that’s full of potential, and I believe we’re ready to take the next step. I can’t wait to get together back on the Scotiabank Arena court.”
Poeltl, a 29-year-old native of Austria, averaged career highs of 14.5 points, 9.6 rebounds and 29.6 minutes in 57 games (56 starts) last season.
Poeltl was originally drafted by the Raptors in 2016, but was flipped two years later to San Antonio as part of the deal that brought Kawhi Leonard back to Toronto.
In 2023, the Raptors traded for Poeltl once again. Though the move has been maligned by some fans (and media) who weren’t huge fans of the move given the franchise’s push for a rebuild, Toronto’s front office remains backing Poeltl.
“Jakob has developed into one of the league’s top two-way centres, and signing him to an extension was a top priority this offseason. As valuable as he is on the floor, we also really appreciate his leadership and experience off-court,” Raptors general manager Bobby Webster said. “Jak shares our goals – he wants to win as much as we do, and we’re thrilled he’ll be a Raptor for seasons to come.”
Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic also had high praise for Poeltl earlier this past season.
“I have a huge respect for Jakob and what he brings to the team,” Rajakovic said. “I think he’s an outstanding teammate, outstanding competitor, and he’s proving it night in and night out. I think he’s playing outstanding basketball this year.”