The Toronto Raptors sent shockwaves through the NBA last week when they announced the departure of longtime team president Masai Ujiri, a day after the NBA Draft. Ujiri, widely respected for building the Raptors’ 2019 championship team and leading the team to eight playoff runs, had become the face of the franchise’s front office, making his exit a major turning point as Toronto tries to chart a new course.
Since that announcement, Raptors fans have been waiting to see what direction the team will take in free agency, with speculation swirling about possible roster shake-ups and long-term plans under new leadership.
Toronto Raptors center Jakob Poeltl (19) and forward Scottie Barnes (4).
Toronto Raptors center Jakob Poeltl (19) and forward Scottie Barnes (4).
© Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
That came on Tuesday when ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Jakob Poeltl agreed to a four-year, $104 million contract extension that will keep him in Toronto through the 2029-30 season, securing his place as the Raptors’ anchor in the paint for the foreseeable future.
"Toronto Raptors center Jakob Poeltl has agreed on a four-year, $104 million contract extension with the franchise through 2029-30, sources tell ESPN. Poeltl will pick up his 2026-27 player option at $19.5M and add three additional years to his deal," Charania wrote on X.
Fan reaction online was immediate and mixed.
“What a steal for Toronto,” one fan wrote.
“Huge pickup for the Raptors!” another fan added.
“No wonder Masai Ujiri left,” a fan posted.
“30 million a year for Jakob Poeltl — what happened to the game I love?” another fan said.
“Crazy to see guys like this get this kinda contract, I mean he doesn’t do much at all…ð,” another fan wrote.