Βy Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
Free agent Austrian big man Jakob Poeltl has agreed on a four-year, $80 million contract to stay with the Toronto Raptors, per ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
Poeltl played college basketball for the University of Utah, where he had a successful career. He was named the Pac-12 Player of the Year and the Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year in his sophomore season before declaring for the 2016 NBA Draft.
Poeltl was selected by the Toronto Raptors with the ninth overall pick in the draft. He spent his first two NBA seasons with the Raptors, primarily coming off the bench and providing energy and rim protection. Poeltl showed promise as a solid rebounder and shot-blocker during his time in Toronto.
In July 2018, Poeltl was traded to the San Antonio Spurs as part of the deal that sent Kawhi Leonard to the Raptors. Since joining the Spurs, he has seen increased playing time and has become an integral part of the team’s frontcourt rotation. Poeltl’s defensive presence, including shot-blocking and interior defense, has been valuable for the Spurs.
Offensively, Poeltl is known for his efficiency around the rim. He is a reliable finisher and has shown good touch around the basket. While not a high-volume scorer, he has displayed solid rebounding skills and the ability to contribute in pick-and-roll situations.
Poeltl’s basketball IQ, defensive instincts, and overall contributions have made him a respected player in the league. He continues to develop his skills and play a crucial role for the San Antonio Spurs.
Still, on February 9, 2023, Poeltl was traded back to the Toronto Raptors in exchange for Khem Birch, a 2024 first-round pick, a 2023 second-round pick, and a 2025 second-round pick, reuniting with his longtime friend and fellow draftee Pascal Siakam.