Toronto Raptors acquire Kamloops’ Kelly Olynyk

In a bit of a surprising move, the rebuilding Toronto Raptors have acquired Canadian Kelly Olynyk and Ochai Agbaji in a trade with the Utah Jazz.

In return, Kira Lewis Jr., forward Otto Porter Jr. and a 2024 first-round pick will be heading to the Jazz.

The move marks the second time the Raptors have completed a trade involving a Canadian player this season, as Toronto acquired RJ Barrett at the end of December.

Olynyk has appeared in 50 games this season, averaging 8.1 points, 5.1 rebounds and 4.4 assists per game.

The NBA veteran has been in the league since 2013-14 and previously was a standout player at Gonzaga University in Spokane, Wash. and South Kamloops Secondary School.

The centre was named the Basketball BC high school player of the year in his senior season at South Kamloops after helping the team to a 36-2 record and third place at provincials.

Olynyk then joined Gonzaga in the 2009-10 season and played at the school for three years, making it to the second and third rounds of the NCAA March Madness tournament.

On top of his strong NBA career, Olynyk has represented Canada numerous times on the international stage.

This past September, Olynyk took on more of a leadership role as he helped Canada to its best finish at the FIBA World Cup (bronze).

Not only did Canada win a medal at the event, but also a spot to compete at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

The Raptors are currently 18-33 this season, while Olynyk’s contract is up at the end of the season and he will be an unrestricted free agent.

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