Ex-top pick Bennett expected to join Raptors

Former first overall draft pick Anthony Bennett is expected to sign a deal with his hometown Toronto Raptors after clearing NBA waivers on Friday, American sports network ESPN reported.

Bennett, who became the first Canadian to be taken number one overall when he was picked by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2013 draft, could join the Raptors next week after being waived by the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The 22-year-old was scheduled to make close to $6 million this season with the Timberwolves, but will have to take a substantial pay cut to play elsewhere.

A team claiming Bennett off NBA waivers would have had to assume his salary, but ESPN reported he would sign with the Raptors as a free agent for $950,000.

Bennett has had a disappointing start to his NBA career. He averaged just 5.2 points and 3.8 rebounds in limited playing time last season. He also missed two weeks with an ankle injury.

Bennett is also a member of Canada's national team, representing his country in the 2015 Pan American Games where he helped lead them to a silver medal.

Earlier this month, he represented Canada at the FIBA Americas Championship tournament in Mexico City.

In 10 games, he averaged 7.6 points as Canada won the bronze medal and moved another step closer to qualifying for the Rio Olympics.

Source: AFP