RJ Barrett expressed a measured response regarding his contract extension with the Toronto Raptors during the team’s media day on Monday. Barrett, a native of Mississauga, Ontario, has completed a strong season in which he met and exceeded many expectations, particularly in areas such as efficiency, rebounding, and defense. Despite his performance, no agreement has yet been reached on his contract for the 2027-28 NBA season.
Over 57 games last season, Barrett posted an average of 19.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 0.7 steals, and 0.3 blocks per game while shooting 49.1 percent from the field. Notably, his turnover rate dropped to a career-low 1.7 per game. He delivered a standout moment in the playoffs, hitting a critical 29-foot three-pointer in overtime of Game 6 against the Cleveland Cavaliers, helping the Raptors stave off elimination.
Barrett acknowledged the importance of the playoff stage for proving his capabilities and emphasized that contract negotiations are beyond his direct control. “I just control my effort and what I do and how I train,” he said, stressing his focus on performance rather than the business side of the game. Barrett is entering the final year of his current contract, set to earn $29.6 million, and is projected to command up to $44 million annually in his next deal.
The Raptors face financial challenges in extending Barrett’s contract, as they are already above the NBA salary cap for the 2027-28 season. Key players Kawhi Leonard, Scottie Barnes, Immanuel Quickley, and Jakob Poeltl are all signed to substantial multi-year contracts. Leonard’s recent two-year, $115 million extension added significant financial commitment but was reported as a team-friendly deal that kept the Raptors below the first apron of luxury tax penalties.
Toronto Raptors general manager Bobby Webster addressed questions about managing the team’s payroll, affirming strong financial backing from ownership, Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment. He noted that the organization remains open to making moves to strengthen the roster, mentioning the value of their first-round draft picks over the next four years as potential assets in managing salary cap space.
Webster also indicated flexibility in the roster to pursue a deep postseason run, acknowledging the team is currently just over the luxury tax threshold but can adjust as needed. Barrett, meanwhile, has entrusted his representation, led by agent Bill Duffy—who also represents teammate Scottie Barnes—to handle contract discussions, expressing confidence in his agent’s capabilities.
As the Raptors prepare for the upcoming season, Barrett’s contract situation remains a focal point, with both sides approaching negotiations cautiously amid the team’s broader financial and competitive considerations.