Raptors Convert Two-Way Contract Ahead of NBA Playoffs

Toronto signs AJ Lawson to standard NBA deal for remainder of season and postseason

Apr. 11, 2026 at 10:06pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting a basketball game or match, with the players and court broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric planes in the Raptors' team colors of red, black, and white.The Raptors' roster moves ahead of the playoffs aim to provide a geometric, multi-dimensional boost to their postseason push.Philadelphia Today

The Toronto Raptors have converted two-way guard AJ Lawson to a standard NBA contract ahead of the playoffs. Lawson, a hometown product, will now be available for the Raptors' regular-season finale against the Brooklyn Nets as they fight for playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference.

Why it matters

The Raptors are currently tied with the Orlando Magic for sixth place in the East, so Lawson's contract conversion could provide a boost as they look to secure a playoff spot. The move also reflects the team's confidence in Lawson's development and potential to contribute during the postseason.

The details

Lawson has averaged 6.7 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 42.0% shooting in 49 games over the past two seasons on a two-way deal. The Raptors are converting his contract for the remainder of the 2025-26 season and the playoffs.

  • The Raptors will host the Brooklyn Nets in their regular-season finale on April 11, 2026.

The players

AJ Lawson

A two-way guard for the Toronto Raptors who has been converted to a standard NBA contract for the remainder of the season and playoffs.

Darko Rajakovic

The head coach of the Toronto Raptors, who has addressed the team's poor starts to games as an underlying issue.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'The Toronto Raptors are converting two-way guard AJ Lawson to a standard NBA contract for the remainder of the season and the playoffs, Todd Ramasar and Mike Simonetta of Life Sports Agency told ESPN.'”

— Shams Charania, NBA Insider

“'We were trying, we were fighting back, we cut down the lead, but when you don't approach the game from the start with the level of intensity and attention to detail that you need to have, this is the outcome.'”

— Darko Rajakovic, Head Coach

What’s next

The Raptors will host the Brooklyn Nets in their regular-season finale on April 11, 2026, with playoff implications on the line. The Raptors are currently tied with the Orlando Magic for sixth place in the Eastern Conference standings.

The takeaway

The Raptors' decision to convert AJ Lawson's two-way contract to a standard NBA deal demonstrates their faith in the young guard's development and the team's desire to have him available for the playoffs. This move could provide a boost as the Raptors fight for a favorable playoff position in the competitive Eastern Conference.