The Rap Up: Cory Joseph is on his way to becoming the best free agent signing in Raptors history

Coming off an embarassing sweep to Washington in the first round of the playoffs, the Toronto Raptors had some extra cash to spend this past summer. And while DeMarre Carroll got the big paycheck, Cory Joseph has become a staple for the team and not only the best pickup of the offseason, but possibly in franchise history.

Joseph became just the second Canadian to don a Raptors uniform in the summer of 2015, signing a four-year $30M deal to become the team's backup point guard.

At the time of the signing, many were skeptical about the amount of money spent to bring in a hometown kid. Fans thought the team would be getting a discount, little did they know the impact he would have on the team this season.

Joseph was seldom used during his time in San Antonio, going from the NBA to D-League affiliate Austin Toros multiple times throughout his first couple of seasons with the Spurs. By the end of his tenure in San Antonio, coach Popovich considered Joseph an integral part of the team. It was hard to believe he could be better on another squad.

But 50+ games into his first season with the Raptors, Cory Joseph has been playing even better and is fueling the best lineup in the NBA this season:

Joseph broke his season minute mark in the second quarter vs. Cleveland last night, the Raptors' 57th game of the season. Toronto values him and he has rewarded them with exeptional production.

View photos Raptors' lineups (Courtesy of Basketball-Reference) More

Toronto's third most-used lineup has become their most successful group this season. That lineup has put up outstanding production, and Dwane Casey has leaned on this group to recover from deficits or stop opposing runs.

View photos TORONTO, ON - FEBRUARY 26: Cory Joseph #6 of the Toronto Raptors drives with the ball against the Cleveland Cavaliers during an NBA game at the Air Canada Centre on February 26, 2016 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The Raptors defeated the Cavaliers 99-97. NOTE TO USER: user expressly acknowleges and agrees by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photoby Claus Andersen/Getty Images) More

Individually, Cory Joseph's game is always on. On the court, he's pedal to the medal at all times, always moving on or off the ball, creating confusion for the opposing defense. His light is always green, he's been relentless all season long and never gives up on a play. All those tendencies lead to good things and Joseph knows that, bringing the philosphy over from San Antonio.

No other Raptors free agent has made such an impact in his first season with the team. And while it's still early to call him the outright best offseason pickup in franchse history, he's well on his way to leaving his mark.

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