The Toronto Raptors have made a low-risk, high-reward move by signing center Olivier Sarr to an Exhibit 10 contract. Sarr, the older brother of Washington Wizards rookie and highly touted prospect Alex Sarr, has spent the last three seasons with the Oklahoma City Thunder after going undrafted in 2021. While this signing may not make headlines as a blockbuster acquisition, it represents a savvy depth addition for the Raptors, who continue to build a competitive roster with an eye on both immediate contributions and long-term development.
Olivier Sarr, a 25-year-old French big man, began his professional journey in Europe before playing college basketball at Wake Forest and later transferring to Kentucky for his senior season. Despite showing flashes of potential in the NCAA, he went undrafted in 2021 but quickly landed a two-way contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder. Over the past three seasons, Sarr has split time between the Thunder and their G League affiliate, the Oklahoma City Blue, where he has steadily improved his game.
Standing at 6’11” with a 7’4” wingspan, Sarr possesses the size and length to be an effective rim protector and rebounder. His mobility for a player of his stature allows him to switch defensively when needed, and he has shown the ability to stretch the floor occasionally, though his three-point shooting remains inconsistent. In the G League, he has been a reliable interior presence, averaging 13.2 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game during the 2023-24 season.
An Exhibit 10 contract is a non-guaranteed deal that allows teams to bring a player into training camp with the intention of either promoting them to a two-way contract or assigning them to the G League affiliate—in this case, Raptors 905. The contract includes a bonus (up to $75,000) if the player spends at least 60 days with the team’s G League squad, providing financial incentive for the player to stick with the organization.
For the Raptors, this is a no-risk move that adds depth to their frontcourt. With starting center Jakob Poeltl locked in and young big men like Kelly Olynyk and Chris Boucher providing versatility, Sarr is unlikely to see significant NBA minutes immediately. However, his presence in the G League gives the Raptors a developmental project with NBA experience who could be called upon in case of injuries or foul trouble.
The Raptors have emphasized length, athleticism, and defensive versatility under head coach Darko Rajaković, and Sarr fits that mold. While not an elite shot-blocker, he has the tools to be a solid rotational big who can protect the rim, set screens, and finish around the basket. His ability to occasionally step out and hit mid-range jumpers or the occasional three-pointer could also make him a useful offensive piece in certain lineups.
Defensively, Sarr’s size and mobility allow him to guard both traditional centers and some stretch bigs, which is valuable in today’s NBA. If he can refine his positioning and discipline, he could become a reliable backup option behind Poeltl. Offensively, he won’t be a primary scoring option, but he can contribute as a roll man in pick-and-roll situations and clean up misses with his rebounding.
One intriguing subplot to this signing is the connection to Alex Sarr, Olivier’s younger brother and the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. Alex is considered one of the most promising young big men in the league, with elite defensive potential and a developing offensive game. While Olivier’s path has been less glamorous—going undrafted and grinding through the G League—his perseverance and experience could serve as an inspiration.
The Raptors may also see this as a potential relationship-building move. While it’s far too early to speculate, having Olivier in the organization could create a positive connection with Alex down the line, should he ever become available in free agency or trade discussions. NBA teams often consider these intangible factors when making minor signings, and the Sarr brothers’ bond could be a subtle but interesting dynamic.
Even if Sarr doesn’t crack the Raptors’ main roster, his presence with Raptors 905 would be valuable. The G League serves as a crucial development platform, and Sarr’s experience could help mentor younger players while also giving him the opportunity to refine his own game. If he dominates in the G League, he could earn a two-way contract or even a standard NBA deal later in the season.
Given Toronto’s history of player development—turning undrafted and G League players into rotation pieces (e.g., Fred VanVleet, Chris Boucher)—Sarr could be the next success story. The Raptors’ developmental staff has a strong track record, and if they can help Sarr improve his consistency, particularly as a shooter and defender, he could carve out a more permanent NBA role.
The signing of Olivier Sarr to an Exhibit 10 deal is a classic under-the-radar move that could pay dividends for the Raptors. While he may not be a household name, his size, experience, and potential fit within Toronto’s system make this a worthwhile gamble. At worst, he provides depth in the G League; at best, he develops into a reliable backup center or even a trade asset.
For Sarr, this is another opportunity to prove he belongs in the NBA. After three seasons with the Thunder, a fresh start with the Raptors could be exactly what he needs to take the next step in his career. Whether he ends up as a rotational piece or a G League standout, his journey is one to watch as the Raptors continue shaping their roster for the upcoming season.
In the grand scheme of things, this move may not shift the Raptors’ fortunes dramatically, but it’s these kinds of calculated, low-risk signings that can sometimes uncover hidden gems. Only time will tell if Sarr can capitalize on this opportunity, but for now, it’s a smart addition for a team looking to maximize every roster spot.
