It’s getting harder for the Toronto Raptors to make the playoffs, and Masai Ujiri’s time is running out. Who can they actually hope to acquire?
In recent weeks, the Toronto Raptors haven’t done much to encourage confidence.
Even though Scottie Barnes has been playing like crazy, the team’s December record of 2–7 remains. This season’s 7–15 record against opponents in the Eastern Conference hasn’t helped either.
Toronto has been outmatched around the rim and in transition, despite the fact that defense was supposed to be a strength. Poor three-point shooting and a negative point differential serve as two further indicators of the scoring problem that persists.
Murray Keegan
Keegan Murray of the Sacramento Kings is anticipated to be targeted by the Raptors, according to Yahoo! Sports’ Jake Fischer.
Fischer continues by stating that given the role he’s taken on in the wake of Harrison Barnes’ deteriorating play, Sacramento management may view a player of his quality as a hefty return for one of Siakam or Anunoby.
However, stories such as those didn’t appear to deter the Kings from trading Tyrese Haliburton in the past. Despite Toronto’s more pressing need at guard, Murray would obviously be a welcomed acquisition.
Anunoby is a far more likely return than Siakam for the money to work. The Raptors may also think about making an inquiry about Davion Mitchell, who Sacramento is willing to part with.
Despite having a strong resume and being selected ninth overall in the 2021 selection, Mitchell has had a difficult time following his strong debut season. He’s not all that different from Malachi Flynn right now, but it makes sense for both parties to trade Anunoby for Murray and Mitchell.
Murray, who is 23 years old, is at least three years younger than other important players like Domantas Sabonis (27), and De’Aaron Fox (26). Anunoby (26) is a better fit and would be more successful in a No. 3 role for a team that is currently attempting to compete.
Kuminga Jonathan
Although a trade for Jonathan Kuminga, a forward for the Golden State Warriors, may be viewed as a “committed to rebuilding” move, the Raptors should really be pursuing this player.
The 21-year-old power forward, selected seventh overall in the 2021 draft, is still young and has plenty of potential. But, given the ages of Andrew Wiggins (28), Klay Thompson (33), and Steph Curry (35), the Warriors might not have much time to wait.
Since Draymond Green has been suspended indefinitely, Golden State has a void in their lineup the size of Siakam. Siakam, who is 29 years old, is the precise kind of power forward the Warriors need if they want to contend for the title while Curry and Thompson are still playing.
Jarace Walker
NBA expert Jake Weinbach reports that the Raptors may get an offer for Jarace Walker as part of a trade deal that targets Anunoby.
If Walker had been available at No. 13 in the 2023 selection, Toronto could have given him a chance. Though Walker is undoubtedly an intriguing element, trade speculations involving Toronto and the Indiana Pacers have more frequently involved players like Bennedict Mathurin and Obi Toppin.
Walker was selected eighth overall in the previous year’s draft and also played in the G League, but he has had trouble finding significant playing time. His stint with the Indiana Mad Ants has gone well; in 33.7 minutes, as a 20-year-old, he is averaging 26 points, 5.4 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 1.4 steals.
Two more Canadian guards, Andrew Nembhard and Jalen Smith, both 23 years old (though Smith has spent more time at center the last two seasons), are reportedly part of a possible offer. Jordan Nwora, 25, may also be available for grabs.
The front staff in Toronto has been adamantly opposed to “rebuilding,” which is the only issue with this transaction. However, a transaction that includes draft picks and some combination of those players is exactly the Rudy Gay-like trade that the Raptors may gain from for years to come.
Financially speaking, Buddy Hield would probably need to be involved, but in the interim, he’s a valuable commodity who might help Toronto with its shooting problems.
With his college ties to Indiana, Anunoby has a better-than-usual chance of re-signing and would make a fantastic No. 3 behind Haliburton and Myles Turner.
