Reinforcements are on the way for the Toronto Raptors as they look to make a late playoff push.
Khem Birch, who is finalizing a contract buyout with the Orlando Magic, plans to sign with the Raptors once he clears waivers, according to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN. Birch is reportedly looking for more playing time, and the 28-year-old from Montreal is familiar with Raptors coach Nick Nurse dating back to their run in the 2019 FIBA World Cup.
Birch has been a solid backup big for the Magic over the past four seasons. His game is very straightforward — he’s a classic center who rebounds and plays exclusively around the basket — but Birch does offer more athleticism and ability and should take minutes away from Aron Baynes, who has struggled with the basics all season. Birch is defensively sound, willing to be physical and will give the Raptors some much-needed depth at center.
In 48 appearances this season, Birch is averaging 5.3 points and 5.1 rebounds in 20 minutes per game.
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