Raptors waive five, give Nate Bittle two-way deal

The Raptors are keeping Nate Bittle and moving on from five other camp invitees as they prepare their regular-season roster.

The team converted Bittle’s Exhibit 10 contract to a two-way deal and waived Tyreke Key, Nimari Burnett, Tyson Degenhart, Jamarion Sharp and Jalen Celestine, according to Blake Murphy of Sportsnet.

Bittle earned the opportunity despite missing the preseason with a foot injury. He’s likely still at least a month away from game action, per Sportsnet’s Michael Grange.

The seven-footer gave the Raptors something to like at Summer League, averaging 9.8 points, 6.8 rebounds, 2.8 blocks and 2.2 assists in four appearances. He shot 50 percent from the field and 43.8 percent from beyond the arc.

That followed five seasons at Oregon, where Bittle averaged 16.8 points, 6.9 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.8 blocks in his final year. He also earned Big Ten All-Defensive honors in 2024-25.

Toronto recently waived Chucky Hepburn and Trey Jemison, creating two openings alongside two-way guard Malachi Smith. Bittle fills one, while Murphy reports the Raptors intend to leave the other available.

That gives them room to evaluate players cut elsewhere before the season. A waiver claim and two-way conversion could still be an option before opening night.

The five players released Saturday had all been on Exhibit 10 contracts and are expected to join Raptors 905 in the G League.

For Bittle, the roster decision is settled. Getting his foot healthy is the next step.